A group of brave OTS members and friends took an icy plunge at Brockwell Lido last week for an ‘Urban Winter Swim Experience’ hosted by Zone3, and supported by Wiggle.

Led by two-time Paralympic swimmer and triathlete, David Hill, our swimmers were first put through their paces with a poolside warm-up to get the blood flowing before braving the 6⁰C waters. Once in their Zone3 thermal wetsuits and neoprene accessories, the guests were led through a series of exercises to regulate their breathing and safely acclimatise their bodies to the cold water.

Regen-James Gregg, Publicity Officer for LGBTQ+ aquatics charity Out To Swim, said “It was fantastic to be part of this event with Zone3, promoting the message that aquatics is for all.

“It’s great partnering with brands that share our ambition for widening access, and our members enjoyed their chance to test out Zone3’s new robe and thermal wetsuits during their cold water experience – as well as their dip in skins at the end.”

At the culmination of the session Hill invited swimmers to take off their wetsuits to experience the exhilarating benefits of cold water swimming – swiftly followed by a chance to warm up with Zone3’s Heat-Tech Changing Robe.

The group ranged from seasoned ultra-swimmers to first-time cold water enthusiasts, with the event aiming to communicate that swimming is open to all, regardless of experience and background.

David Hill said “It was great to coach the group and see everyone’s smiling faces after a very cold session. Everyone can enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of open water swimming, whether it’s at your local lido in town, in a lake or the sea.

“If you’ve still got cold feet, try going with a friend and getting yourself some appropriate kit – you only need to be in the water for 90 seconds to feel the benefits.”