Frequently Asked Questions

What do I get when I sign up?

You get full, immediate and permanent access to everything on the Renaissance Swimmer website. You will also receive a weekly email for 16 weeks prompting you to read the next chapter.

(If you don’t wish to receive these emails, you can unsubscribe. This won’t affect your access to the website)

How long does it take to work through the Renaissance Swimmer project?

That’s entirely up to you. Your access is permanent and you can return any time you like. The full project is roughly book-length (about 60,000 words) and takes 3 to 6 hours to read. However, you will want more time for the challenges. It can take weeks or months to change your swimming technique or fitness significantly. Also, some of the challenges are seasonal.

I hope you will be persuaded that being a Renaissance Swimmer is a lifelong project and that you will continue exploring new ideas in swimming and discovering new swimming adventures long after you have finished reading.

Are there any other costs?

No. You have full access to everything on the website which contains all the material for the Renaissance Swimmer project. If we add more content, you will have access to that too. There are no hidden charges or ongoing fees.

We may in future add new paid-for options such as forums, live discussion groups, masterclasses and a newsletter. These will be optional extras. There is no obligation or expectation that you will sign up for these.

Do I need to be a proficient swimmer to join?

Not at all. Enthusiasm, curiosity and an interest in exploring a wide range of swimming activities are the key requirements. Pool swimmers are encouraged to explore the joys of swimming outdoors, while outdoor swimmers will discover there’s more to pool swimming than mindless laps. The less swimming experience you have, the more there is for you to enjoy discovering. That said, if you can’t keep yourself afloat and safe, it would be prudent to take swimming lessons first.

Does it matter when I start?

No. You can start anytime and proceed at your own pace. While the practical challenges of some sections are seasonally dependent, you can tackle them in any order. The weekly emails are meant as friendly prompts to check back, not a timeline to work to.

I haven’t received any emails. Why not?

When you first sign up, you should receive a message asking you to confirm you wish to receive email from Renaissance Swimmer. This may land in your junk folder. You need to click the link in this message to receive further emails.

If, after checking your junk folders, you still don’t receive any messages, please email simon@outdoorswimmer.com

I have some suggestions or feedback. Who do I send it to?

In the Renaissance spirt of continual learning, feedback, comments and suggestions are welcome. Please send them to simon@outdoorswimmer.com

I’d like to explore some of the topics in more depth. How could I do that?

In the first instance, you could book a one-to-one Swim Mentoring call with Simon.

Can I get my money back?

If you’re not happy, you can claim a full refund within 7 days of signing up.

Can I sign up from outside of the UK

Yes, of course. Just keep in mind that your geography may determine the types of swimming that are easily accessible to you.