Best Way to Find Open Water Swim Clubs and Make Your Swims Better
Looking for the best way to join an open water swim club? You’re not alone. Most swimmers start by poking around online, asking friends, or simply showing up at a local pool. Below are the steps that actually work, so you can stop guessing and start swimming.
Step 1 – Use the Open Water Swim Clubs Directory
The fastest route is the Open Water Swim Clubs directory on our site. Just type your town or postcode into the search bar and hit go. The results page lists clubs with contact details, meeting times, and a short note about the water type (lake, sea, river). You can filter by skill level, so beginners won’t end up in a marathon training group.
Tip: Save the club’s email or phone number in your phone. A quick hello can lock in a trial spot before the class fills up.
Step 2 – Join a Free Trial or Open Swim Session
Most clubs offer a free trial or an open swim hour. Treat it like a test drive – jump in, meet the coach, and see if the vibe fits. Ask about safety measures, rescue equipment, and the typical water conditions. If the club looks solid, sign up for the regular schedule.
Pro tip: Bring your own goggles and a swim cap. It shows you’re serious and saves the club from handing out gear you might not like.
Step 3 – Connect with the Community
After you join, stay active in the club’s Facebook group, WhatsApp chat, or forum. These spaces are gold mines for tips on tide times, local water quality, and upcoming races. You’ll also hear about spontaneous meet‑ups that aren’t listed on the official calendar.
Being part of the conversation helps you get invited to extra training sessions, which is the best way to improve faster.
Step 4 – Keep Your Skills Sharp
Training in a pool still matters. Work on your breathing, sighting, and endurance at least twice a week on land. Mix interval sets (e.g., 10 × 100 m fast, 30 sec rest) with long, steady swims. The variety builds both speed and stamina, making open water feels easier.
Don’t forget to practice sighting – lift your head every few strokes to spot buoys or landmarks. It feels awkward at first, but it prevents you from swimming off course.
Step 5 – Gear Up the Right Way
Good gear makes every swim safer. A snug wetsuit reduces fatigue, a well‑fitted swim cap keeps you visible, and anti‑fog goggles keep your vision clear. If you’re new to wetsuits, choose a 3 mm thickness for moderate water temps – it balances warmth and flexibility.
Finally, carry a small waterproof pouch with a phone, a whistle, and a spare zip‑top bag for valuables. It’s a tiny step that can save you a lot of worry.
Following these steps is the best way to find a club that fits, stay safe, and get better at open water swimming. Jump in, meet the community, and enjoy the freedom of swimming beyond the pool walls.
What is the best way to prevent fogging up swim goggles?
Swim goggles are essential for swimmers, but can often be hindered by fogging up. This article explains how to prevent this from occurring. Firstly, it is important to purchase a quality pair of goggles with a good seal and anti-fogging coating. Secondly, swimmers should rinse the goggles with clean water before and after each swim. This will remove any oils or residue which can cause fogging. Finally, a small amount of antifog solution can be applied to the inside of the lenses to further prevent fogging. Following these steps will help ensure your goggles remain fog-free during your swim.