We swim on Saltdean Beach east of Brighton and usually hide in the wind shadow of a big groyne. On busy weekends we go to the small beaches to the right or left, as the main beaches are too crowded. If you can't find us on one side, try the beach on other side.

If the sea is too rough we go to inland waterholes like Cuckmere Haven.

For triathlon training and long sea swims visit our partners and friends of the Sea Swim Fitness Club

Sea swimming is to pool swimming what trail running is to track running and can be a wonderful activity. It is a chance to get out and simply enjoy your surroundings. You can stretch out your stroke and get into a rhythm that you can't achieve when there are walls every 25 or 50 meters.

It is possible to swim throughout the year from Brighton or Saltdean beach. Those who do so highly recommend the practice. Weather permitting we swim throughout the year from Saltdean Beach just 5 miles east of Brighton. Otherwise we may go on a trip to another waterhole.

There is a particular intensity in bathing on a winter's day. It is not necessary to be a fast swimmer or even a good swimmer to join the daily sea bathers and enjoy the benefits it brings.

We take surfboards, canoes, or inflatable boats to the beach and go rock-hopping, coasteering, paddle the windsurfer, drift along in a kayak, capsize, play beach-ball in the water, or just splash around. This is great fun in the sea whilst we gain experience that may help us stay safe in the water.

Please note that you will get wet sooner or later, so pick the right clothes. Robust shoes, socks and trousers protect you if you slip or fall. A long sleeve thermal pullover and a hoodie keep you warm on top. For cold days we recommend a wetsuit underneath. A windproof anorak or jacket is essential as it protects you from windchill.

Rock Hopping (Coasteering)

This is a good introduction into sea swimming and the relatively new sport of coasteering. Learn about the coastline at the same time as having fun and testing your skill and endurance.

Coasteering is different to sea level traversing, which usually involves the use of ropes and climbing harnesses and the aim is to stay dry. This is more about getting wet, swimming and scrambling around rocks. Kids have been doing that since seaside holidays first began.

We've enjoyed coasteering and rock hopping since the mid '80s when it was more of a personal type of adventure sport. Over the past few years it has been developed into its own activity and has seen a massive uptake in people wanting to give it a try, with magazines rating it as the 'must try activity of the year' helping to boost its popularity.

Then we scramble across the rocky shore line, slip into natural water basins or small canals, and watch the local sea creatures in their natural habitat. On a calm day it is possible to explore the reef, when it gets rougher hold onto your hats, it can be a roller-coaster ride!

We climb, swim and jump around our spectacular rocky coastline, turning rocks, groynes and waves into playthings! Jumping is not compulsory but most people like to try it. Finally we make our way across the slippery reef into the sea and play around until we're all exhausted.

The clothes shown here are convenient for adventure swimming and will protect you on the beach against rocks, pebbles, sunburn and wind chill. Wear at least one layer of clothing.

Be Visible

Wear brightly coloured swimming clothes and a hat or hood so you can be seen by fast moving traffic. Lifeguard uniforms are easy to swim in as they are designed to be worn for water rescues.

Swim with whatever whatever clothes you feel comfortable in. Just make sure they don't interfere with your swimming ability. Gain experience by swimming in different types of clothes like T-shirt, sweatshirt, trousers or jeans, anorak or windproof rain suit.

Waterproof clothes are the most practical outfit as they dry quickly, don't weigh much and protect you from windchill. Depending on their design they hold more or less water when swimming. You can find all sorts of robust and inexpensive training gear in army surplus stores.

Some bathers like to use fins, hand paddles, boots or socks, neoprene balaclava hats and wet suits, especially during the colder weather if they want to spend more time in the water.

Keep Warm

Always start a session in dry kit. If you plan several swimming sessions, you need need a bit more gear as it is not nice to put on clammy cold clothes after a warm-up break. Remember to bring a change of dry clothes for your way home.

Socks and Shoes

Put on some lightweight sandals or sports shoes with socks for extra comfort and protection. Now go for a swim and notice the extra drag of the shoes that slows your swimming somewhat. Get used to it, many water sports require shoes.

Kit List

Swimmers should bring three unlined clothing layers (base, middle, outer), as used in canoeing, coasteering, sailing or other adventure sports. High visibility clothes would be an advantage. The following equipment is recommended for adventure swimming sessions:

This will get wet:

1. T-shirts (long and short sleeves).
2. Hoodie, sweatshirt or pullover.
3. Trousers, cargo pants or jeans.
4. Anorak and rain pants, or coverall.
5. Trainers or sports shoes and socks.
6. Poncho as shelter and changing room.
7. Sleeping mat as float and for sitting on.
8. Rucksack with three large heavy-duty plastic bags (for food, clothing and sleeping bag).
   
   This should be kept dry in waterproof bags:
   
9. A large beach towel
10. Plenty to eat and drink.
11. Sleeping bag (mission-dependent).
12. Dry clothes and shoes to change into afterwards.

Enjoy and stay warm.