Cold-water swimming is believed to have positive benefits for your body and mind, with proponents reporting improvements in mental health, long-term immunity, and reductions in inflammation and menopausal symptoms. Although the scientific community is playing catch-up with anecdotal evidence, getting outdoors in winter with like-minded people can only be a good thing. Here are a handful of Central Coast swim clubs you can join.
Peninsula Ocean Swimmers
Who: A friendly group of year-round swimmers, who split into groups to swim courses from 500 metres to two kilometres. Members enjoy a coffee together afterwards, and welcome competent swimmers.
Meet: Umina Beach, to the left of the surf club, and Copacabana on Saturday mornings when conditions are suitable.
When: Every day, usually around 7am
Killcare Frigid Digits
Who: All Frigid Digits are members of Killcare Surf Club and participate in 30-metre and 50-metre races at Putty Beach. There is also a race for kids. The swim, plus a breakfast of homemade soup, or bacon and egg sandwiches, costs $10 every week.
Meet: Putty Beach, the northern end of Killcare.
When: Every Sunday at 9am, between 28 April and the last Sunday in August.
Macs Maniacs
Who: MacMasters Beach Surf Club members, from rookies to seniors and visitors, who meet for a jog or walk to Copacabana before going for a swim. The swim depends on surf conditions; sometimes it’s off the point and back to the beach, around the buoys, or a dip in the ocean bath. They then grab a cuppa or breakfast.
Meet: MacMasters Surf Life Saving Club.
When: Every Sunday at 9am (you must be a surf club member to join).
The Buttercups
Who: A very casual group of swimmers of all ages and abilities who swim across the bay or out to the buoy, some with flippers and snorkels. They swim as a group, so less confident members are not left behind, and warm up with a coffee after.
Meet: Outside the gear shed at Toowoon Bay Surf Club.
When: Daily at 6.30am, 8am (main group) and 9am, with Saturdays getting the largest turn-out.
Terrigal Ocean Swimmers
Who: An umbrella group of smaller Terrigal-based swim clubs, including the Tremblers, Swimbeciles, Budgie Smugglers, Flying Fins and Sea Slugs.
Meet: Most of the groups meet around Terrigal Surf Life Saving Club and are also passionate about the removal of shark nets and protecting local marine life.
When: The times vary depending on which group you join.
*Keep in mind that these groups are social and meeting times may change. People with heart conditions should also talk to a doctor before taking a cold-water plunge.
WORDS JENNIFER ENNION
