Outdoor Swimmer’s annual report, Trends in Outdoor Swimming 2022, showcases the growing number of people experiencing the physical and mental benefits of outdoor swimming. Although, the publisher warns that the activity of outdoor swimming could be more diverse and inclusive.
Based on a survey of more than 4500 outdoor swimmers, interviews, and additional desk research, findings in the second edition of Trends in Outdoor Swimming include:
- Female participation increased from 65% to 73.5% over the past 12 months
- 1 in 5 swimmers who started in the last 12 months say they did so for mental health benefits
- 65% of female swimmers say outdoor swimming is important to their mental health
- 59% of outdoor swimmers continue swimming outdoors through the winter
- One third of swimmers have taken action about water pollution such as writing to politicians, signing petitions and campaigning
- 1 in 3 outdoor swimmers volunteer in some capacity within the sport
- Lockdowns encouraged many people to try outdoor swimming but growth has continued even as restrictions eased
In addition, the report looks at participation in outdoor swimming for people with disabilities and long-term health conditions, and for people from minority ethnic groups.
It finds that people with disabilities are under-represented in outdoor swimming compared to the general population but those who do swim outdoors report benefits. Many (but not all) also feel supported at swimming venues and events, and in their local swimming community.
People from minority ethnic groups are also under-represented, and the report sheds light on some of the reasons behind this as well as sharing insights from groups working to improve inclusion.
Author of the report and founder of Outdoor Swimmer, Simon Griffiths, said “This is the most comprehensive piece of research we’ve ever done in the outdoor swimming community. The size of the database means we’ve been able to draw out differences and similarities between genders, age and geographic location when it comes swimming habits and activities.
“It underlines the continued growth of outdoor swimming, while at the same time addressing the barriers to further development and the challenges we face to ensure the benefits of outdoor swimming reach as far as possible throughout society.
“We’re really proud of the report and hope it proves useful to anyone connected to the wonderful world of outdoor swimming.
“Like businesses in many sectors, those in outdoor swimming are still dealing with the fallout from Covid-19 and the subsequent supply chain issues. However, the research also found that growth in outdoor swimming has created a wide range of work, new business and self-employment opportunities.”
