FAQs

Open water swimming involves swimming in natural environments such as lochs, rivers, and the sea. In Scotland, it’s often referred to as wild swimming and has become increasingly popular across Fife, Scotland and beyond for its community, physical and mental health benefits.

Yes — with the right support and knowledge. Open-water swimming can be challenging for beginners due to cold water, changing conditions and various other factors. However once you understand these issues, it is very rewarding. My open water swim coaching focuses on safety, confidence-building, and helping you feel in control in lochs and coastal environments.

I have up-to-date open water swim coaching and swim safety qualifications through the STA and accredited by CIMSPA - recognised safety organisations.

Fife offers fantastic open water swimming locations, including lochs and sheltered coastal areas. Popular spots for wild swimming in Fife provide a safe and scenic environment, especially when guided by an experienced coach.

My open-water coaching sessions are run at Lochore Meadows Country Park and Silversands Beach in Aberdour. To find other locations, join the Fild Wild Swimmers Facebook group to talk with other experienced open water swimmers. Remember, always swim with another person.

Water temperatures in Fife and across Scotland typically range from 4°C in winter to around 14–18°C in summer. Cold water swimming in Scotland requires gradual adaptation and an understanding of cold water safety.

My coaching sessions teach you how to acclimatise to cold-water conditions safely.

If you are new to open water swimming, a wetsuit is recommended for warmth and buoyancy. In colder months, cold water swimming may also require gloves, boots, and a thermal swim cap. A brightly coloured tow float is essential so you can always be seen.

Once you have learned to recognise how your body reacts in cold water and how to warm up afterwards, you may wish to swim in just a swimming costume. however the effects of cold water on the body are much quicker, and so care must be taken.

It's close to the A92 in central Fife, near Lochgelly. It's a 45 minutes drive from the centre of Edinburgh, 50 minutes from Dundee and 30 minutes from Perth.

No — you don’t need to be a swimmer. My open water coaching is designed for all levels, from dippers and dookers to beginner swimmers and those training for triathlons or swim events across Scotland.

Cold water shock is the body’s natural reaction to sudden immersion in cold water. It can cause rapid breathing and panic. Learning cold water swimming techniques and working with an experienced open water swim coach in Scotland can help you stay calm, safe and in control.

I recommend bringing:

• Swimming costume
• Wetsuit (optional depending on water temperature and your experience)
• Bright swim cap
• Flip flops or crocs and a dry robe (other brands also available)
• Tow float (for visibility)
• Warm clothing for after your swim
• Towel and a hot drink

I have a full list of suggested equipment that I will send you when you sign up for my sessions.