The Outdoor Swimmers' Handbook

'An important, inspiring book by someone that has encouraged million of people to experience the wonders and friendships of Britain's rivers, lakes and seas' --ROBERT MACFARLANE

'A treasured guide for anyone who wants to venture into rivers, estuaries, lakes and seas for a dip, a moonlit swim or a great adventure. I loved this book!' --LYNNE COX

The must-have, beautifully illustrated guide to the booming nature-meets-wellbeing sport of the past 18 months: outdoor swimming.

Capturing the freewheeling spirit, community, and wisdom that defines The Outdoor Swimming Society movement, founder Kate Rew reveals everything you need to know to explore rivers, lakes, seas, and estuaries. Sharing tales of her own inspiring swims, Kate explores the rich and varied life of outdoor swimmers, from the physiology of cold to planning lazy hazy downstream swims.

An exquisite guide for beginners and enthusiasts alike, The Outdoor Swimmers' Handbook will lead you to the shore and become your trusted companion for the adventures ahead.

ISBN-13: 9781846047282

Media Type: Hardcover

Publisher: Penguin Random House UK

Publication Date: 11-01-2022

Pages: 320

Product Dimensions: 6.50(w) x 8.75(h) x 1.20(d)

Kate Rew is the founder of The Outdoor Swimming Society. Born on a Devon farm, she began river swimming as a child and hasn't stopped since. As founder of The OSS, Kate has founded three iconic open water events (Dart10k, Swoosh, and Hurly Burly) and has spearheaded an international resurgence in swimming outdoors. Her first book Wild Swim was published in 2008.

Table of Contents

Introduction v

Chapter 1 Understanding Lakes xiv

Chapter 2 Understanding Rivers 20

Freshwater Field Guides 44

Chapter 3 Understanding Seas 60

Marine Field Guides 99

Chapter 4 Understanding Estuaries 112

Chapter 5 Weather 128

Chapter 6 Understanding Cold 154

Chapter 7 Winter & Ice Swimming 188

Chapter 8 Night Swimming 202

Chapter 9 Planning a Swim 218

Chapter 10 Swim Better 260

An Outdoor Swimmer's Dictionary 285

Notes 293

Acknowledgements 295

Index 297

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