Cold Water Swimming is an amazing activity with many benefits but is also higher risk than summer swimming. 

We recommend all members read our Cold Water Safety Guide to help prepare for Winter swimming.

We also offer a Cold Water Induction online course, created to ensure swimmers are fully equipped to swim safely in cold water. It’s an opportunity to dispel common myths whilst providing swimmers with the information needed to mitigate risks associated with cold water swimming such as hypothermia and the dangers associated with the body’s cold-water shock response.

As well as looking at the mental health benefits this course also focuses on cold water shock and the body’s physiological response to exposure to cold water. You will learn about vital safety information, self monitoring, recognising warning signs, post swim recovery, what to do (and not to do) in an emergency, neoprene vs skin swimming, safe entry, acclimatisation, and what equipment you will need.

The course is £20 for non-members – NOWCA members get it for only £5 via NOWCA Perks.

A Cold Water Induction is mandatory at some venues, so if you plan to swim throughout Winter, start preparing now.

Some venues may offer an ONSITE Cold Water Induction.

Check directly with the venue to understand their cold water requirements and winter swimming policy.