She also stresses the importance of warming up before getting into the pool. You should always do this to swim safely and reduce your risk of injury, but it's especially important if you're a beginner and your form perhaps isn't as it should be. You don't want to be pulling a muscle after your first session! Our swim lessons are a great way to empower children to learn life-saving skills that allow them to make lasting memories in and around water — safely. Our progressive swimming lessons prioritize proper technique and essential water safety in comfortable, warm-water pools that inspire confidence and fun. Compared with the seaside or a lake, it's easier to spot a swimmer in distress at a pool, Fisher says. And there will often be markers to indicate how deep the water is, so less-confident swimmers can stay where it’s shallow. If you do become unwell with diarrhoea or any other symptoms, seek medical help and let them know you have been open water swimming. Do not swim again until you have had no diarrhoeal symptoms for at least 48 hours, or for a longer period if advised by a doctor. Information on bathing water and beach risks Blue-green algal blooms and scum are not always toxic. However, it is not possible to tell from their appearance whether they are harmful. At freshwater locations, the risk from blue-green algae is assessed and warning signs are displayed if a toxic bloom is confirmed. Children, farmers and pet owners should treat all blue-green algae with caution.

Qualified swimming coach Sarah Wiseman gives an insight into how to remain safe when swimming in the sea. There are various types of algae that occur naturally in all natural waters, but evidence suggests the one that poses the greatest risk to health is blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) in freshwaters. As well as the obvious physical benefits of swimming in the ocean, there are several health and wellbeing perks too, particularly as a Centre for Healthy Minds, University of Wisconsin-Madison study found that the less we interact with nature the more disconnected our lives become.

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If you want to swim in the ocean, you’re probably asking yourself: What kit do I need for sea swimming? Waves are formed by the wind. The size of the wave depends on how long and how hard the wind blows. Waves break as they move into shallower waters closer to the shoreline. How waves break on the shoreline depend on the shape and slope of the ground below it. The three types of waves Spilling waves Anyone can become unwell from swimming in any open water as there will always be micro-organisms present. The risk of becoming ill depends on various factors: Decide how long you are going to be in the sea for, then walk from your exit point up to where you plan to get in. This gives you a good view of any potential hazards. Is there anybody else using the beach? Are there any boat users or creel (fisherman’s) pots in the water? Are the boats motorized or sailing craft?

Walk from your exit point up to where you would like to start from. This enables you to take a good view and identify any hazards of the stretch of sea you would like to swim. Learning how to swim in the ocean comes with time and experience, and respecting the sea is one of the first steps, explained Wiseman. choosing the location carefully and avoid swimming in water with blue-green algal blooms or scums in freshwatersThe breathing side of open swimming, and particularly the rhythm of breathing, is vital for concentration. The water temperature changes all the time, which is excellent for your circulation and immune system," said Evans, who has launched a new animated Sky Original TV series Obki, inspired by her love of sea swimming. Aim to swim at a beach that is lifeguarded. If you have never been to the location, speak to the lifeguards – let them know of your plans and, most importantly, take their advice! (Be aware that they are there to manage the main swimming and surfing areas).

Amanda Evans agreed. "When I started swimming in the ocean, the connection to the open water helped me so much with my mental health, especially when I lost my mother. I love sea swimming so much because it makes me feel alive and at one with nature," said Evans. It is important for swimmers to know the dangers when swimming outdoors and preferably swim at a lifeguarded beach, organised session or supervised venue. The Water Safety Code provides essential and easy-to-remember information to help people plan for their activity and understand what they should do in an emergency. 1. Stop and think – Always Swim in a Safe PlaceWhen you get in the water, practise putting your head under, holding your breath, and blowing a few bubbles. Get used to the feeling of the water covering your face, while holding on to the side in the shallow end," says Dr Lee. Look around to see what lifesaving equipment is available to use, such as a ring buoy or reaching pole, Ramos recommends.