If I've never done open water swimming should I start now?

[00100001]

I can swim. I've swum in rivers and the sea etc.

But am interested in doing open water lake swimming at the local lakes. It's an organised event with lifeguards etc.

Should I wait until the summer do you think?

I think it depends where you are. Usually I'd suggest not starting in November but the water is still pretty mild near me (SE England - about 14 degrees) so I say go ahead. Would recommend a wet suit plus gloves & bootees though.
Also, a tow float is a really good idea in case you do feel overwhelmed - just means you can stop and hold on to it for a minute.

You just need to be prepared for cold water swimming. Get out before you think you should, listen to your body, warm up your core asap etc. If it's a lake with lifeguards then at least there are people around to help should you need it.

My local lake is about 11° right now and I'm still not wearing a wetsuit, although I am wearing my neoprene gloves and socks. So you'd probably be alright starting now.

We have quite a few groups around here of outdoor swimmers, lots of ladies groups, albeit mostly sea swimming. Would there be a group local to you you could join and ease yourself in, get advice and assistance etc?

South Herts

They provide the tow float, hot drinks, changing rooms and warm showers. The session is lifeguarded.

You have to provide a bright hat and wetsuit.

The course is 80m.

So, lets a pretend it's a normal pool, I'd usually swim 75m in about 4-5 minutes.

I think I'd stay in maybe 3 minutes max? They say 1 minute per degree above 10°?

I live 1hr+ from the sea, but about 10 mins from the lake sessions.

Try it! I love it, maybe you will too?

Well ,I hope I will!

I just don't want to get into difficulties I suppose

I think I know where you are talking about and it's run very well. Go and try it out

Get a wetsuut and boots
It s lifeguarded
You will enjoy

This one? https://www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/welwyn-hatfield/stanborough-park-water-sports-centre/open-water-swimming

If you swim outdoors or have done in slightly warmer you will be fine with a wetsuit

Yea

Big fat wetsuit, TOW FLOAT, neoprene socks and gloves, and give it a go - the gear will still be useful in somewhat warmer weather however it goes.

I knocked off for the winter about a month ago but some people still do it all year round.

Do listen to your body though. I know someone who had transient global amnesia triggered by open water swimming...she was ok but it's alarming to experience.

Can’t stress enough wetsuit gloves socks and if you don want to splash out on neoprene hat you can double up on normal swim hat

I’ve been In the sea today exhilarating

If you fancy it, it's probably right for you.
Wild horses couldn't drag me in.