Lived Experiences

A SwimRun to Remember on Windermere

There’s something uniquely exhilarating about plunging into England’s largest lake at dawn, breath catching in the chill, heart racing not just from the cold, but from the buzz of hundreds around you. This year’s Great North SwimRun on Windermere was nothing short of thrilling, and I’m still buzzing after completing the Short Course: a route packed with scenery, challenge, and the kind of camaraderie that stays with you.

The SwimRun format is a beautiful contradiction—intense yet inclusive, competitive but cooperative, gruelling and gloriously scenic. You run in your wetsuit, swim in your trainers, and switch between the two disciplines multiple times. It’s wild, slightly bizarre, and utterly brilliant.

Whether you’re a seasoned endurance athlete or a first-timer like me, hundreds turned up to test themselves against water, rock, and trail, all drawn by the Lake District’s beauty and a united spirit. The organisers were supportive, marshals were superb, and safety measures were top-notch. Canoes patrolled the swim course, ensuring no one was left behind, and every finisher was cheered over the line like a champion.

Read more about my personal journey here.

A Sense of Community

More than logistics or lake views, what struck me most was the sense of community. Solo entrants, duos, and teams all became part of something bigger—fuelled by grit, smiles, energy snacks, and cold water. Every face you passed offered encouragement, every splash felt like a shared triumph.

As a Trade Union member, I couldn’t help but notice how perfectly this event aligns with our values at the WEU. SwimRun is about being united in spirit: you train together, start together, suffer together, and cross the line together. An antidote to hyper-individualism.

I’d love to see more members take up the challenge in 2026. Imagine WEU participants representing perseverance, health, mutual aid, and joy on the Windermere shores!

Discover how teamwork shapes sporting communities here.

Cold Water Swimming: The Good, the Chilly, and the Cautionary

Benefits of Cold Water Swimming

• Mental Health Boost: Cold water triggers a flood of endorphins and dopamine—nature’s antidepressants. Regular dips improve stress resilience and mood.
• Physical Health Perks: Enhances circulation, reduces inflammation, and may boost immunity with increased white blood cell activity.
• Lifestyle and Community: Encourages time in nature, builds social bonds, and fosters a powerful sense of achievement and body confidence.

Learn more about cold water challenges here.

Risks and Drawbacks

• Cold Water Shock: Sudden immersion can cause gasping and hyperventilation—a drowning risk. Always take guidance from an official club.
• Hypothermia: Prolonged exposure can lead to low body temperature; early signs like shivering or confusion may be overlooked.
• Heart Strain: Cold shock raises blood pressure and heart rate, which can trigger arrhythmias in susceptible individuals.
• Environmental Hazards: Rivers, lakes, and seas may contain pollution, currents, or debris. Know your location and conditions.
• Accessibility & Sustainability: Not everyone can participate; popular spots risk erosion and litter if unmanaged.

(*As with any sport, professional guidance is essential. Join an official club for proper support and safety.)

Summary

Whether you’re a seasoned triathlete, a curious wild swimmer, or a WEU member exploring new wellbeing avenues, cold water swimming and events like the Great North SwimRun illustrate how outdoor sports can unite us in powerful, joyful ways. Don’t be afraid to test the waters—do your homework, respect the risks, and swim safe. The physical, mental, and social rewards can be immense.