Private Open Water Swimming Essentials Course @Longside lake

Immerse yourself in the refreshing waters of Longside Lake on October 17, 2026, as part of an essential open water swimming session designed to enhance your skills and confidence. This unique opportunity is led by experienced cold-water swim coaches Paul Mackenzie and Jude Palmer, both qualified STA instructors and RLSS lifeguards.
The event takes place at the picturesque Longside Lake, offering a serene setting for learning and enjoying outdoor aquatic activities. Participants will receive comprehensive guidance on safety measures and techniques to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience in cooler temperatures. The session is tailored for those curious about cold water swimming who want to gain valuable knowledge and practical skills.
The day begins with an informative 'theory on the bank' segment, covering crucial aspects such as body responses to cold water, safe entry methods, duration guidelines, and how to handle unexpected situations effectively. Following this theoretical introduction, participants are guided into the lake for a supervised swim or dip, allowing them to apply their newfound knowledge in a controlled environment.
The session aims to build confidence among swimmers by providing personalized attention with a 1:6 coach-to-student ratio, ensuring ample opportunities for questions and practical demonstrations. Swimmers will have access to warm-up facilities including a sauna and hot drinks on site, enhancing the overall experience.
Participants must be at least 14 years old, capable of swimming more than 50 meters in a pool setting, and over-18s are welcome without adult supervision. Under-18 participants require an accompanying adult for safety reasons. The event is suitable for beginners to intermediate swimmers looking to expand their open water skills.
The cost covers one hour of coached instruction with experienced coaches Paul Mackenzie and Jude Palmer, who bring a wealth of experience in various aquatic environments around the world. They emphasize the importance of health considerations before engaging in cold-water activities and recommend consulting with healthcare providers if necessary.
Participants are encouraged to wear appropriate swimwear or wetsuits based on personal preference and comfort levels. Detailed kit lists will be provided upon registration, along with cancellation policies and refund information as outlined in the Terms and Conditions.
Join us for an enriching day of learning and exploration at Longside Lake, where you'll not only enhance your swimming abilities but also contribute to valuable research aimed at improving mental health through outdoor activities.
Enjoy a memorable experience surrounded by nature's beauty while gaining essential skills to safely enjoy open water swimming in cooler conditions. Don't miss this chance to learn from experts and immerse yourself in the therapeutic benefits of cold-water swimming.