Swim England statement on open water swimming

Swim England has issued the following statement after Prime Minister Boris Johnson unveiled the Government’s plan to ease the country out of the coronavirus lockdown.

A Swim England spokesperson said: “Our interpretation is that open water swimming is considered a form of outdoor activity within the new guidelines coming into force from Wednesday (13^th May).

“We recognise this will be welcomed by our open water community.

“However, we are advising that only competent and experienced open water swimmers use this form of exercise, whilst adhering to social distancing guidelines.

“Even then, we ask that swimmers consider the risks to themselves and others whilst participating in this activity as the majority of locations will not have lifeguards and there is a real risk of cold water shock at this time of year.

“We are working with British Triathlon and RLSS UK, as well as the relevant public health bodies, to ensure that any return to open water swimming can be done in a safe manner.  These guidelines will be published shortly.

“The government guidelines state that you can only exercise with up to one person from outside your household. This means that any type of club activity would not be permitted.

“This guidance only relates to England.”