The perceived benefits of and barriers to open-water swimming: a mixed-methods examination

Christie, Mark ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4246-0895 and Elliott, David ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4790-2354 (2025) The perceived benefits of and barriers to open-water swimming: a mixed-methods examination. International Journal of Aquatic Research and Education, 14 (4).

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Abstract

This study set out to determine the perceived benefits of, and barriers to, open water swimming (OWS). Adopting a mixed-methods approach, six hundred and sixty-five open-water swimmers responded to an online survey consisting of the Exercise Benefits and Barriers Scale (EBBS) and a series of open-ended questions. Data from the EBBS revealed the strongest perceived benefits to be ‘Psychological Outlook’ and ‘Life Enhancement.’ In terms of barriers, those presented in the EBBS received low ratings with only ‘Physical Exertion’ considered as being somewhat problematic. Content analysis performed on the open-ended responses showed social aspects, mental well-being, and connection to nature as being particularly beneficial. Barriers to full participation included water pollution, accessibility, and poor weather conditions. These outcomes are discussed in relation to the uniqueness of the OWS experience. Comparisons to other exercise modes also are presented.

Item Type:	Article
Journal / Publication Title:	International Journal of Aquatic Research and Education
Publisher:	Bowling Green State University
ISSN:	1932-9253
Departments:	Institute of Health > Rehabilitation and Sport Science
Depositing User:	Mark Christie
Date Deposited:	20 Mar 2025 11:37
Last Modified:	21 Mar 2025 08:00
URI:	https://insight.cumbria.ac.uk/id/eprint/8718

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