Addicted to sea swimming? 6 friendly open water groups you can join this autumn
Summer’s over, but swimming doesn’t have to be.
If you’re still craving a bit of Vitamin Sea as the breeze grows ever more ‘Baltic’, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy all the benefits of a saltwater dip throughout the winter.
In fact, it’s a proven boost to your physical and mental health; seawater helps release stress, relaxes your muscles, promotes deep sleep and it’s also rich in vitamins and minerals, which are good for the skin.
The key is to ensure you’re swimming safely – especially as the tides turn choppy and the swell gets a little rougher than you might be used to.
The best advice is to join one of Cork’s many friendly sea swimming groups, where you’ll find top-notch advice, camaraderie, and expert instruction.
Here are six to check out before you take the plunge:
1. Rise & Swim Cork
This group is calling on eager swimmers to meet at Inch Beach in East Cork for a swim, a cuppa, and a chinwag with the #BalticBais and #BalticBeores
You won’t be short of a laugh on a cold morning with this group of Cork swimmers, that’s for sure!
If cold shores and beautiful sunrises are for you, then head over to Rise and Swim for more information.
View this post on Instagram
2. West Cork Swim Coaching
This open water swim coaching for all will certainly help turn any sea-dipper into a sea swimmer. Based at Duneen beach near Clonakilty and Lough Hyne, there are qualified instructors to teach you in the tide.
There’s a Level 2 open water coach, and a level 2 swim instructor, fully insured with a kayak/lifeguard backup for all sessions.
You will be well looked after in this safe swim coaching!
For more info see: West Cork Swim Coaching.
View this post on Instagram
3. Myrtleville Swimmers
Isn’t it handy having Myrtleville Beach is just 30 minutes from Cork City? There are lots of people with a shared interest in enjoying the sea safely in Myrtleville, whether for a quick dip or training to swim a marathon.
Myrtleville Swimmers say that all swimmers are responsible for their own safety, that you shouldn’t swim alone, and that planned group swimming can help reduce the risks.
To arrange to meet other swimmers, you can join the Swim Times WhatsApp group by contact Marcus on 0868047764.
For more information see Myrtleville Swimmers.
4. SwimRise Cork
What better way to start your day than going for a morning dip in Fountainstown? SwimRise is a fantastic way to swim safely with other people.
They even have a WhatsApp number connected to their Facebook so you can find out exact times and locations for swims.
See SwimRise Cork for more details.
5. Rosscarbery Open Water Swimming For All
Joining a new group can be daunting, but it’s a little less scary when you can guarantee that your new group won’t put you out of your depth.
Rosscarbery Open Water Swimming For All offers open water swimming coaching sessions for all levels. With locations at The Warren Beach, Rosscarbery, or Lough Hyne, Skibbereen, you’ll be a professional in the open water in no time.
Head over to Rosscarbery Open Water Swimming For All to join.
6. Sandycove Swimmers
This group is for anyone who swims. All they ask is that you join their private Facebook group and tell them about your swimming experience. Sandycove is a gorgeous spot just ten minutes beyond Kinsale and more information can be found on their website Sandycove Swimmers.
The group highly encourages that after you swim, you dress in warm clothes, enjoy your thermos of tea with a few biscuits and socialise with the other swimmers.
If this sounds like the right swim spot for you, join their Facebook group: Sandycove Swimmers.
