Winter Swimming & Thermal Wear

Winter Swimming: Embrace the Chill!

Consistency is key when mastering any skill, and swimming is no exception. There's no need to hang up your goggles during the cooler months! As we transition into late September, it's the perfect time to prepare with thermal wear for both your child and yourself.

Why Swim in Winter?

Our indoor locations are maintained at 29°C and public pools at 28°C from November to Easter, I highly recommend that all young students in our Kids and Baby & Toddler programs wear thermal gear starting in October until temperatures warm up significantly. Although swimming in cooler weather is safe, children may find themselves less tolerant of the water compared to the summer months.

If we notice that our students are too cold to focus, we promptly bring them out of the water. This isn't a waste of the lesson; they will still gain valuable experience without any negative associations. Our philosophy prioritizes happy memories of each lesson over simply enduring the full duration while being uncomfortable.

The Importance of Comfort

When children are preoccupied with staying warm, they struggle to concentrate on learning how to swim. Ensuring they’re comfortable is essential for effective learning.

Thermal Wear Guide

It's crucial to understand the difference between wetsuits and rash guards. A wetsuit, made of neoprene, retains heat by trapping a thin layer of water against the skin, while a rash guard primarily offers sun protection and can even cool the body down by retaining moisture.

Water thermals made from neoprene are designed to keep your child warm in the water. Look for thicknesses of 2.5 or 3mm for optimal warmth. Ensure the fit is snug; loose-fitting wetsuits will not provide the necessary insulation.

Where to Buy Thermal Wear

For those in our Baby and Tots Classes, you can find baby wetsuits and wraps at the online store Baby Central. Use code "ALISONTAMSWIMMING" for 10% off select items!

Other places to purchase thermal wear include:

• Escapade Sports

• GigaSports

• Decathlon 

• Wing On

Online options:

• Baby Central - use code ALISONTAMSWIMMING

• Amazon

• Retykle

• Water Pro 

Feel free to comment if you know of additional retailers that sell wetsuits!

New Exchange Platform on Facebook

We’re excited to announce that ATS has launched a new exchange platform on Facebook! This initiative aims to help students and parents purchase second-hand wetsuits, making it easier and more affordable to find the right gear. Join our community and help us create a sustainable environment by trading or buying gently used swimwear!

Important Safety Tips

If your child starts turning blue or shivering uncontrollably, please take them out of the water immediately and shower them with warm water. Always remove thermal wear only when they are in a warm shower; taking it off poolside can lead to increased discomfort.

Conclusion

Winter swimming can be an enjoyable experience for everyone. By staying warm and comfortable, your child can focus on learning and having fun in the water. Let’s make this winter swimming season the best one yet!