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Send us a text Welcome back to the MYSWIM Podcast, where we explore the world of swimming through culture, history, adventure, and the people who make the water feel like home. I’m your host, Michael Helps , and today we’re heading to a place where swimming is more than a sport — it’s a way of life. Iceland- A land of fire, ice, geothermal magic and some of the most passionate swimmers you’ll ever meet. Today we’ll dive into Iceland’s swimming history, its cold‑water culture, the best places to plunge, and what you need to know before you brave the North Atlantic. We’ll also explore the relaxing beauty of the Blue Lagoon as well as the incredible network of swimming pools found in nearly every Icelandic town. So grab something warm to drink, settle in, and let’s dive in. Welcome to Iceland & welcome to the MYSWIM podcast. Content Includes: A BRIEF HISTORY OF SWIMMING IN ICELAND SWIMMING POOLS: THE HEART OF ICELANDIC COMMUNITIESTHE RISE OF COLD‑WATER SWIMMINGso WHY resurgence of COLD WATER dipping ? What are the THE BENEFITSHOW TO PREPARE FOR A COLD PLUNGE IN ICELANDTYPES OF ICELANDIC COLD‑WATER SWIMMERSTHE BLUE LAGOONTHE BEST OPEN‑WATER SWIM SPOTS NEAR REYKJAVÍKHvammsvík Hot SpringsHoppland AkranesNauthólsvíkLake ElliðavatnSilfraThanks for joining me on this journey. If you enjoyed today’s episode, share it with a friend, leave a review, and stay tuned for more stories from the world of swimming. Until next time — stay warm, stay curious, and keep swimming.

Send us a text This is a bonus episode in the Africa series and is my personal account of swimming one of the worlds greatest swim adventures. In this episode I go through the What, Who, When and How for my Lake Malawi swim attempt. My training time was split between lido, lakes and my normal 3 times per week masters sessions as well as gym work (mainly on shoulders and core). My typical training diary, weekly and monthly training mileage are in the show notes looked something like this: Typical Weekly Training Plan: ·      Monday – Rest or Gym (1hr to 1.5hrs) ·      Tuesday – Masters swimming club (approx. 3k) ·      Wednesday – Rest or Gym (1hr to 1.5hrs) ·      Thursday - Masters swimming club (approx. 3k) ·      Friday – Lido (between 5k to 10k) ·      Saturday – Lake swim (6k to 10k) ·      Sunday - Lake swim (6k to 10k) or Masters swimming club (approx. 3k) Average monthly /weekly SWIM totals: | Monthly Totals | Ave.Weekly Totals | January | 18,225m | 4,556m | February | 5,500m | 1,375m | March | 20,125m | 5,031m | April | 16,400m | 4,100m | May | 61,325m | 15,331m | June | 85,860m | 21,465m | July | 61,147m | 15,287m | August | 73,969m | 18,492m | September | 52,516m | 13,129m | October (up to swim) | 8,350m | 2,088m To find out more above the African swims and particularly Lake Malawi contact Open Water Africa please follow website www.openwater.africa and visit www.MYSWIM.uk for links to the other African swims in the series as well as information about many other of aquatic adventures.

Send us a text This is the fourth of a four part podcast Africa series with Open Water Africa founder Howard James. In this episode we find out the details of the incredible and exciting swim across Lake Malawi in the heart of Africa .We find out why this swim is so special , the logistical challenges and explore what it takes to successfully achieve the swim and discuss unique wildlife in the area. To find out more above the African swims and particularly Lake Malawi contact Open Water Africa please follow website www.openwater.africa and visit www.MYSWIM.uk for links to the other African swims in the series.

Send us a text This is the third of a four part podcast Africa series with Open Water Africa founder Howard James. In this episode we find out the details of the intriguing swim across False Bay in South Africa .We explore what it takes to successfully achieve the swim and discuss its infamous wildlife. To find out more above the African swims and contact Open Water Africa please follow website www.openwater.africa 

Send us a text This is the second of a four part podcast Africa series with Open Water Africa founder Howard James. In this series we together we explore major swims in Africa including Robben Island, False Bay and the incredible Lake Malawi. In this episode we find out the details of various swims associated around Robben Island in South Africa and explore what it takes to successfully achieve the challenges. To find out more above the African swims and contact Open Water Africa please follow website www.openwater.africa and go to www.MYSWIM.uk for links to all podcasts and youtube interviews.

Send us a text This is the first of a four part podcast Africa series with Open Water Africa founder Howard James. Together we explore major swims in Africa including Robben Island, False Bay and the incredible Lake Malawi. We find out the details of the swims and explore what it takes to successfully achieve the challenge. This first one investigates the origins of Open Water Africa and the vision for where it is going.  To find out more above the African swims and contact Open Water Africa please follow website www.openwater.africa

Send us a text This is the second part of the interview with Outdoor Swimmer Magazine founder Simon Griffiths. In this episode we explore how open water swimming has change since the launch of the Outdoor Swimmer Magazine and great places to swim around the world. If you enjoy the interview, please leave us 5 stars/ a like and please visit our website www.MYSWIM.uk and see some of the artwork that accompanies each of the podcasts. Link to : Outdoor Swimmer Magazine website (www.outdoorswimmer.com) Link to : Swim Wild and Free: A Practical Guide to Swimming Outdoors 365 Days a Year  Link to graphic design: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/159852998?ref=studio-promote

Send us a text Welcome to the 2nd series of the MYSWIM podcast and what better way to start the new season than to catch up with one of the founders of the magazine that the UK Open water community refer to as “THE” open water magazine. The MYSWIM podcast caters for all kinds of aquatic adventures, but this episode concentrates on the outdoor kind. This episode talks to Simon Griffiths of the Outdoor Swimmer magazine and explores some fascinating insights not only into the workings of a premier magazine but also into Simon’s unique close-up knowledge of how open water swimming has evolved over recent years along with some great advice on how to get the most out of your outdoor swimming experience. If you enjoy the interview, please leave us 5 stars/ a like and please visit our website www.MYSWIM.uk and see some of the artwork that accompanies each of the podcasts. Link to : Outdoor Swimmer Magazine website (www.outdoorswimmer.com) Link to : Swim Wild and Free: A Practical Guide to Swimming Outdoors 365 Days a Year  Link to graphic design: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/159852998?ref=studio-promote

Send us a text This is a review of the guests and topics from season one of the MYSWIM podcast with guests such as  Sally Minty Gravett, Matt Holland,Deb VineSue WoodcockMichael Helps, Andy Donaldson Michael Lemmel Covering aquatic adventures such as  Swimming around Jersey, Olympic water polo, Social outdoor swimming Swimming the length of lake Zurich, The Ocean seven world record The development of Swimrun.

Send us a text Ever wanted to find an aquatic adventure that transcends mere metrics of distance and duration. In this episode we enjoy a conversation with the visionary joint founder of Swimrun, someone who has shaped the evolution of this awe-inspiring sport into the global event it is today.  We uncover the philosophy that underpins Swimrun, as we delve into how its unique format and how it works with nature, embracing its beauty and pushing the participants to the edges of what they think is possible.  In this episode we talk to Otillo's joint founder and father of Swimrun - Michael Lemmel. We really drill down into the essence of the sport and delve into Michael's profound philosophy behind the WHY of Swimrun—an event that goes beyond the mere realms of swimming and running.  We explore Michael's beliefs that through this unique multi-sport discipline, we can tap into the essence of our surroundings, immersing ourselves in the awe-inspiring landscapes, and experiencing a profound connection as paired competitors work with the elements to achieve a common goal. The interview takes place on the beautiful Lazure beach in Montenegro. The perfect location to have a conversation with someone with such a love of the outdoors. Together, we'll explore Michael's unwavering belief that Swimrun is not just a race; he shares his insightful perspectives and personal experiences, we'll discover the unique meaning behind this sport and uncover how it has the potential to shape not just our bodies, but our minds and spirits as well. So, get ready for a captivating conversation, as Michael Lemmel unravels the secrets of Swimrun and guides us on a journey of connection, and limitless possibilities. I hope this episode leaves you inspired, intrigued, and eager to explore an event that at its core is designed to integrate the potential of competitors with nature. Further links and details on: www.MYSWIM.uk YouTube version of the interview: https://youtu.be/rUSAlOJzJns Michael Lemmel’s Instagram account : @Michaellemmel

Send us a text Ever wondered what it takes to complete Open water swimming’s Ocean 7, understanding the challenges both mentally and physically? Well today’s extraordinary guest contemplated the same dream but went above and beyond to pushed the boundaries of human endurance by targeting all seven swims in under a year and used their incredible achievements to make an impact on mental health support. Today we talk through THE WHAT, WHY, HOW AND WHO with the incredible multiple world record holder Andy Donaldson What is the Ocean 7? The Ocean seven a globally recognized marathon swimming challenge devised in 2008 to push swimmers to conquer seven varied and challenging channels around the world with the intention of being swimming’s equivalent of the Seven Summits mountaineering challenge. I was fortunate enough to meet Andy at the recently formed Ultra Swim 33.3 event in Montenegro. A fantastically organised event in a beautiful location that I will be doing a separate podcast about in the coming weeks and will leave links to future events in the show notes. Andy is no ordinary swimmer now holds multiple British and World records for his completed Ocean seven achievements not least being the first to complete the challenge in less than a calendar year as well as cumulatively having the fastest time for the seven swims. But Andy's journey doesn't stop there. Alongside his awe-inspiring athletic pursuits, he has been working tirelessly to raise awareness and support for mental health. Using his swim challenges to push the limits to get positive change to how mental health and wellbeing is talked about and how support is provided. Having had the privilege of being able to delve into the mindset the is extraordinary individual I cannot think of a better ambassador for open water swimming and champion for mental health support and awareness. My conversation with Andy took place on a stunning beach in the picturesque country of Montenegro between swims at the 33.3 event and I urge those listening to this on audio to visit the MYSWIM.uk YouTube channel, available through links on the MYSWIM.uk website to see the relax beaty of our podcast surroundings.  Although the sound quality may not be on par with a pristine sound studio and you might hear the gentle crashing of waves, the sound of pebbles and the distant laughter of beachgoers, acreaking parasol in the gentle breeze. I know you’ll appreciate I’m finding it hard to apologise for being outside in such a stunning location and embrace the ambient sounds of nature over the perfection of a studio – for me this was the perfect studio. So pull up a chair next to Andy and I, Close your eyes , imagine the breathtaking view, feel the warmth of the sun, and let the atmosphere of this beach in Montenegro ignite your imagination. Get ready to be inspired, captivated, and moved as we uncover the depths of his incredible journey.  It’ll a podcast experience like no other – enjoy! Links and further information: Andy Donaldson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andy.swimming/Andy Donaldson website: www.andyswim.com.auUltraswim 333 website site : www.ultraswim333.comWww.MYSWIM.ukYouTube link to podcast episode: https://youtu.be/NRyi1eVOjRw?si=3qAhsniGTYRVV0nX

Send us a text In this episode I share with you a swim I got half way through and proclaim to my boat crew “This is the day I learnt to swim for!” Through a series of questions friends have asked me over the years I explore the What, How ,When, Why ,Who, Where, of swimming the length of the beautiful Lake Zurich through my personal experience of my favourite lake swim - My individual MYSWIM.   A YouTube video accompanies this podcast which shows further detail of the swim.  Topics covered: ·      INTRODUCTION to the Lake - geometry, temperatures, water wild life ·      HOW did I prepare for the swim? ·      WHAT was my TRAINING PLAN? ·      WHAT is my recommended Swim and travel KIT LIST and food? ·      WHAT was my Feed Strategy? ·      Travel kit suggestions ·      WHO is the event for? ·      Suggestion for WHERE to stay ·      WHAT happens on RACE DAY Prior to the start ·      The Race Experience ·      My lasting impressions of the swim  ·      Regular Feature: Factitious swim challenge  Links for further information: www.srichinmoyraces.org  With this episode of the podcast there is a unique MYSWIM design that reflects the essence of the LAKE ZURICH swim discussed. This design is exclusively available through the MYSWIM.uk website, and each purchase helps keep the podcasts going and promoting the shared love for all things aquatic.   It is an exciting journey, and we would be honoured to have you join us with our designs and showing off your love for your individual MYSWIM. Thank you for your support, and we look forward to being a part of your aquatic adventure.

Send us a text In this episode we take a deep dive into the world of outdoor social swimming – a thrilling and fulfilling way to swim outside with friends. But why is it so popular? What are the benefits? And how can you join in on the fun? We've got all the answers you need, thanks to our special guests who embody the social and selfless spirit of the swimming community. We'll explore their personal journeys, uncover their motivations, and discover the most important aspects of their social swimming experiences. So tune in and get ready to be inspired to take the plunge yourself!  For hundreds of years, swimming has been recognised as a therapeutic activity for physical ailments, but it's only recently that the mental health benefits of being part of a community have been understood.  We've got two amazing guests - Sue Woodcock and Debbie Vine - who for me embody the positive energy and enthusiasm of this type of swimming. Their love of the water is matched only by their passion for supporting others in their outdoor swimming adventures.   We explore:  ·       Their backgrounds and journey from learn to swim through to current love of swimming? & What inspired them to start outdoor social swimming ·       Social swimming is wide ranging and means so many things to different people. Why do they think outdoor swimming is becoming so popular and why is it so special to them.  ·       How do it make them feel? & What have been some of the most memorable experiences they’ve had while swimming outdoors ·       Who do they think it’s for Or Anyone its not appropriate for ·       What are the benefits of outdoor social swimming? ·       What are the benefits of swimming in the winter? ·       What do they think are the most common misconceptions about outdoor swimming?  ·       What do they think are some of the most important pieces of equipment for outdoor swimming? ·       How do they prepare for any outdoor swim? ·       What should you wear? Are woolly hats compulsory?! ·       When can you do outdoor swimming? When is the best time to swim? What is the temperature at this time? ·       How do people find places to swim?  ·       What are some of the challenges they’ve faced while swimming outdoors? ·       What do they think are the most important safety precautions to take when swimming outdoors?  ·       Where would be their ideal place to swim? Anywhere in the world and why? ·       If they could swim with anyone famous from anytime, who would they choose for their perfect swim? ·       How does someone find out about groups and where to swim? (UK and abroad?) o   Here are the names and website addresses of some top outdoor swimming societies in some regions around the world: o   North America:§  United States Masters Swimming (https://www.usms.org/)§  Outdoor Swimmer Society (https://www.outdoorswimmingsociety.com/)§  Wild Swimming USA (https://wildswimmingusa.com/)o   Europe:§  Outdoor Swimming Society (https://www.outdoorswimmingsociety.com/)§  Serpentine Swimming Club (https://serpentineswimmingclub.com/)§  The Outdoor Swimming Society UK (https://www.outdoorswimmingsociety.com/)o   Asia:§  Hong Kong Open Water Swimming Association (https://hkoswi

Send us a text In this episode we are joined by GB water polo goalkeeper and coach Matthew Holland we explain what is waterpolo ,its history and the sports inclusion into the modern Olympics. Matt joins us and helps us understand a bit more about being a professional in the sport of water polo and particularly your experiences around 2012. We explore Matt’s journey and the following topics: 1.      The Beginning: Matt Holland’s journey from starting to swim through to the day of the Olympics?    2.      Training plans for the journey: How did training plans and strategies develop along that journey? Should anything be change? 3.      Olympics 2012: What was it like being selected for the London Olympics in 2012 the first GB squad to get to the games for 56 years. We talk through the events at the Olympics and the day of the first match (preparation, holding area, warm up, team talk, seeing the crowd) 4.      Professional water polo player: Life After the Olympics ,following your dream and talents as a professional water polo player for clubs in Europe (Holland, Spain, France) How did the experiences differ,  a day in the life of a professional water polo player. 5.    Part-time player: The change to working full-time, which inevitably water polo players in the UK need to do, How that changed the training regime and tips for an aspiring waterpolo player looking to juggle work or studies with training. 6.   Future of British Water polo: Matt Holland is still very much involved with the playing and coaching side of British water polo, we discuss the future of UK polo. 7.      Future Matt Holland: What does the future hold for Matt Holland? 8.   Further Information:links to information referenced in the podcast: World Aquatics formerly FINA on www.worldaquatics.com Look up local clubs on the British swimming website www.britishswimming.org Those wanting to aspire to the national league of the UK then the British water polo league website on www.bwpl.org)There is a unique design that goes with this podcast links to which can be found on the website www.MYSWIM.uk .Every purchase helps us keep these podcasts going and helps spread the knowledge and love for aquatic adventures in their various forms.

Send us a text In this episode we explore the why, the what, the how and the when of an around island swim of the uk channel island of jersey with experience multi English Channel and jersey island swimmer Sally Minty Gravett MBE. We explore with Sally the following: WHY What was your journey upto the swim? Where has the love of swimming come from?For you as an individual Why is it so special? Has your love for it grown over the years and times you’ve done it?WHAT (Information about the swim) Metrics about the swim (36 miles tidally assisted, start and finish point)What Training and preparation of the swim would you typically do? And how is it structured ( that works for you would you recommend any variations for some else?)Can you tell us more about the popular SMG training camps run in the beautiful settings that Jersey offers could you tell us a bit about that (time of year, format, whose it for,where you swim) HOW We talk through the swim itself stage by stageWhat are some of the most successful feeding plans you’ve used or seen used for this swim?Any crew recommendations (size of crew, types of character, crew roles)Would you change anything about the swim?WHEN (The admin bit!) When does the swim take place?How can you book,who to contact and what are the rough costs involved?Fictitious swim off challenge Tony the Tiger VERSUS Barlow Bear Information referenced: www.swimwithsal.com www.jerseyseaswims.org Please support the podcast by visiting our website to view the unique designs that accompany each podcast. Every purchase helps bring more podcasts to the aquatic community - thank you