Open Water Swimming is an exhilarating and refreshing outdoor sport that takes you beyond
the pool and into lakes, rivers, and the sea. It combines endurance, technique, and mental toughness as you navigate natural waters and changing conditions. Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself, improve your fitness, or simply enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, open water swimming offers a unique and rewarding experience.
Our Open Water Swimming group welcomes swimmers of all levels — from complete beginners to experienced long-distance swimmers. We organise regular swims, safety briefings, and guided sessions to help you build confidence and enjoy the water safely. Beyond the swim, we’re a friendly community who share a passion for adventure and support each other every step of the way. Dive in — it’s more than just swimming, it’s a lifestyle.
Club Established & JMSU Best new Sports Club Winner.
JMSU Non-BUCS Team of the Year Nominee
JMSU Inclusion Award Nominee.
LJMU Open Water Swimming is a unique and invigorating club for students who want to embrace adventure, build resilience, and experience the unmatched thrill of wild swimming. Whether you're looking to boost your mental and physical wellbeing or just want to throw yourself into something cold and exciting, our club offers an unforgettable experience. Open water swimming is known for improving mood, reducing stress, and building a stronger connection to nature. But most of all, it's about community—meeting like-minded people who share a love for the outdoors and aren’t afraid to dive into something new. Whether you're a seasoned swimmer or just curious to try, we welcome all abilities with open arms.
We meet once a week on Wednesday afternoons, depending on weather conditions, at a designated safe location which will be shared weekly on our social media and group chats. Each session is supervised by experienced swimmers and follows strict safety guidelines to ensure everyone enjoys the experience with confidence. All you need to bring is suitable swimwear, a towel, a warm change of clothes, and a positive attitude. We recommend a swim cap and neoprene socks or gloves during colder months, but we'll give you guidance if you're unsure. Our sessions are relaxed, flexible, and social—perfect for anyone looking to recharge midweek and step out of their comfort zone.
Joining LJMU Open Water Swimming is more than just joining a club—it's embracing a lifestyle. Cold water swimming has been shown to reduce anxiety, increase circulation, boost immunity, and help you feel more alive than ever. But it’s not just about the health benefits; it's the thrill of the plunge, the laughter shared on the shoreline, and the friendships formed through shared challenge and exhilaration. Whether you're in it for the wellness, the rush, or the community, this club offers a refreshing break from campus life and a powerful way to reconnect with both nature and yourself. So take the plunge—literally—and be part of something extraordinary.
Each sports club is led by a student committee responsible for running the club, organising activities, and representing members. The committee is chaired by the Club Captain, with support from other elected roles.
Club Captain - Havanna Cridge
Vice Club Captain - Lucy Gallimore
Communications Officer - Thea Read
Treasurer - Ella Lewis
Social Sec - Andrew Laing
Welfare Officer - Megan England
Charity Officer - Kayla Rawlins-Williams
Support your club in style — whether you're repping a team kit or grabbing general gear, we've got you covered.