FAQs

I know it is free, but what does joining involve?

By joining you get access to the GWS facebook page where the listings of daily and weekly events is put. It also allows you to see the contribution from other members, connect with others in the group and see what the sea is doing each day as someone often posts a photo of the beach quite early in the day.

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When can someone join?

Any time - join via the facebook group, you will have to agree to the values of the group to meet admin approvals.

 

Where can I find you?

Gylly Wellbeing Swimmers meet regularly on Gyllynvase beach, Falmouth. 

Look out for the blue flag on the right hand side as you look out at the water. GWS are usually here from 8am - 10.30am most days with additional times for coaching and events that vary throughout the year. 

We have daily and weekly opportunities to connect for swimming and social interaction. 

Join our FB page for regular updates on times of social swim meets as well as coaching and other wellbeing activities.

 

What if I don't live in Falmouth or Cornwall?

That is fine, we are open to members from anywhere, especially if you are thinking you might visit Falmouth and join in at any point. If you want to join because you support the group or are interested in its activity that's fine too.

 

Do I need to be on Facebook?

No you don't, however at the moment that is the main tool used for communication. If you want to join, just come down to the beach and connect with Nick (or another member) instead.

 

What's the deal with Spond and the free classes, do I have to be on Spond or can I just turn up?

Spond is an app that is very useful for our coaches to schedule events and activities and invite specific or all the members on specific days/dates/times, it helps with co-ordinating individual sessions and also to be able to message among the group without having to use facebook. It is also useful for GWS to be able to record quantitive data for funding applications and keep a record of their offerings across a certain time-frame. The coach will also use Spond to gather any relevant medical information (confidentially) and to gauge number and level of participants, which will help enormously with preparing and planning the sessions. 

 

Can I bring a friend with me to check something out?

Yes sure, it's important and useful to tell the coach or mentor in advance if you plan to bring someone to a specific session, but in general everyone is welcome, if someone wants to come along before they actively join the group.

 

I've seen some people wearing green GWS swim caps, how do I get one and do I have to wear one if attending swimming?

The GWS hats are available from Nick for a small charge to cover costs of production. Members are welcome to wear them but it is not obligatory. If you are taking part in a swim coaching session, is it mandatory to wear a bright coloured hat (this doesn't have to be a GWS one). We highly recommend bright coloured highly visible swim caps to be worn at all times when sea swimming for safety purposes. They do not need to be the GWS hats (but they are long lasting, extra stretchy and warm, and it's really nice to spot fellow members when you're in the water). 

 

Are they free?

No, The GWS hats are available from Nick for a small charge to cover costs of production. They can be bought via cash or transfer down at the beach.

 

Can I join if I don't swim?

Yes of course. Not everyone joins for the swimming, we understand everyone has their own reasons for not getting in the water and welcome people who might be interested in the other wellbeing activities that GWS offer, and for the social connection and community benefits too. If you are not familiar with going in the sea but are curious, even better, get involved by coming to a introductory-confidence-building open water coaching session or meet the ten o'clock club for a fun dip with a friendly group for encouragement.

 

Are there any age limits?

We welcome people of all ages, however we do not currently offer any coaching to under 18s for insurance purposes.

 

What's the insurance cover?

Our wellbeing practitioners, mentors and sea swim coaches offer their services on a voluntary basis.

We are insured with Public Liability, Professional Indemnity and Personal Accident cover. 

 

Is my gear covered if I leave it on the beach where the group meets?

Unfortunately not. We cannot take responsibility for anyone's property left on a public place.

 

What other things go on through the year?

As well as our listed wellbeing activities; journalling, yoga, meditation, swim coaching, life coaching, there are always social events being organised. GWS offers a space for you to meet and connect with new people that can go on to become great friends, it encourages this by offering events that include: Games nights, meals, cinema trips, bbqs on the beach, breakfasts on the beach, group event participation, and lots more.