Long-time listeners to the pod will know that Ed never ever talks about his swimming hobby, but the RTBC team have decided to indulge him - just this once, mind - and dedicate a *whole episode* to the boom in outdoor swimming. Whether you’re a seasoned wild swimmer, a winter dipper or a lido goer, there’s a huge number of reasons why you might like to step outside the indoor confines of your local swimming baths. We speak to Kate Rew and journalist - and former Hampstead Ponds lifeguard - Nell Frizzell about why they find outdoor swimming exhilarating, as well as how to avoid swimming in s**t. And Professor Mike Tipton is back to give us a health warning and plenty of advice on how to swim safely. Plus: How should Geoff navigate the annual rotting gourd display? Guests Kate Rew, Founder, Outdoor Swimming Society and author of the Outdoor Swimmers’ Handbook (@kate_rew) Professor Mike Tipton, Professor of Human and Applied Physiology, University of Portsmouth (@ProfMikeTipton) Nell Frizzell, Journalist and Author of The Panic Years, Square One and Holding the Baby (@NellFrizzell) More information Check out the work of the Outdoor Swimming Society, including articles on how to stay well swimming and the 3% access myth Buy a copy of the Outdoor Swimmers' Handbook Watch a video of Mike immersing Chris van Tulleken into 12 degree water Mike mentioned the Blue T**s swimming group The Acta Physiologica article 'Effects of cold water on stress, cardiovascular and psychological variables' Check out Nell's books and her essay about being a lifeguard at the Hampstead Ponds Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.