The Masters Swimming Podcast

How much does it really cost to chase your swimming dreams? Liz Simpson crunches the numbers on Joe Malone's annual spend and uncovers a surprising culprit driving up his costs - a serious goggle habit!Would you pay anything for a personal best, or are rising expenses threatening to price swimmers out of the pool? As costs climb, is there a smarter way to save, or should we just count our blessings that we're not paying for carbon bikes or golf green fees? Helen Gorman drives the debate to find out if Masters swimming is still worth the splash.

Helen Gorman chats to Simon Griffiths, or Mr Swimming as he should really be known. As founder of Outdoor Swimming Magazine, published author, seasoned Thames River regular, and masters swimmer with Teddington SC, Simon's life is all things aquatic. In this episode, he shares his vast and entertaining knowledge of the swimming world, from practical tips to the truly unexpected, like floating sofas and feedback from nudist readers. Whether you're a lane-counter in the pool or a cold-water convert, there's something to inform, inspire and make you laugh.For more on Simon, check out Outdoor Swimmer Magazine or explore his latest venture at renaissanceswimmer.com 

Sports massage therapist and City of Sheffield masters swimmer, Ken Flett and Dom Wooldridge discuss recovery with Helen Gorman.How can masters swimmers optimise recovery? Do we need to rush out and buy an ice bath, order some inflatable compression trousers and block book weekly massages?Ken also discusses his recovery from recent prostate cancer surgery, including a visit from Sheffield's relay rivals, Basingstoke Bluefins to help complete a charity fundraising challenge. 

As the countdown begins for entries to open for the British Masters Swimming Championships, Helen Gorman dives into conversation with Jonathan Saunders to preview what's in store at this year's premier long course showdown in London this June.With Jonathan's inside perspective from the British Masters Swimming Committee, tune in for discussion on the future of Masters swimming, including the recent split from Aquatics GB.We're al;so celebrating the achievements of Masters swimming nationwide, from the latest on the Masters Decathlon and Inter Counties to the jaw-dropping number of records already shattered in 2025.

After coaching Olympic triathlon champion Alex Yee, Paul Eaglestone decided to put his methods to paper and write a book. Today he chats to Helen Gorman.As a former swimmer and masters swimmer himself, he brings the book to life with stories from a life spent watching some of the best swimmers and coaches in the world. Listen in to find out how you might gain some free speed in the pool and maybe order the book too - Free Speed, by Paul Eaglestone.

Judy Brown and Laura Kerrigan join Helen Gorman to discuss breast cancer diagnosis, treatment and successful returns to the pool. Their experiences are very different, but they share a determination and positivity that has helped them flourish after cancer.Judy shares stories about her records and incredible recent success in the 60-64 age group, and Laura explains why she's setting so many personal best times alongside helping to set up the new Crystal Palace Masters Club and managing the Surrey team at the Inter-Counties.

Michelle Ware and Dominic Wooldridge join Helen Gorman for a discussion on racing disasters.This light-hearted look at past mistakes includes botched dives, malfunctioning equipment and backstroke navigation issues.These things happen to everyone - even masters world champions!

Award-winning coach Tony Corben and AP Race's Kevin Pickard discuss the rapid evolution of South Downs Trojan SC. In this conversation, we cover the recent visit of the AP Race team to Trojan, explore coaching philosophies, and step into the new Freestyle Media Confession Booth for some exclusive coaching insights.Plus, hear one of the toughest sets that masters world record-breaker, Jo Corben does, and get an inside look at one of Adam Peaty's gruelling sets...do you dare try them yourself? Hosted by Helen Gorman.

Mum of four, Julie Howe, chats to Helen Gorman about pregnancy, motherhood and swimming 400 IM at the National Masters Championships just three months after giving birth to her fourth child. Hear about Julie's past as a Commonwealth Games athlete in Melbourne in 2006, her decision to step away from competitive swimming at a young age, and her passion for science. Discover what motivated Julie to resume her swimming journey as a member of Woking Swimming Club and how she balances training with her busy life.

Helen Gorman meets up with Exeter-based fitness trainer Del Pitcher to explore whether CrossFit and Hyrox can enhance performance in masters swimming.They compare these to other forms of land-based workouts and discuss why swimmers often excel in the CrossFit Games and Hyrox events.Drawing from his background in military and police fitness, as well as his experience in swimming, Del explains how CrossFit could fill a gap in overall fitness and wellbeing, whilst also addressing potential drawbacks.

Coventry Masters swimmer Martyn Brunt dives into the eco-side of swimming with Helen Gorman, proving that every little choice counts - from holding onto the same kickboard for two decades to embracing the simple joy of a train ride to Sheffield.They explore sustainability, from pools warmed by data centres and landills to medals crafted by recycled electronics. Plus, could sticking with your worn-out race gear actually give you mental edge? Tune in for a fresh take on how swimmers can make waves without making waste.

Meet Sam Lawman, a powerhouse in the pool and a key player in East Leeds' world-record-breaking relay teams. Whether he's representing Great Britain in sport lifesaving or dominating underwater fin events, his speed and skills are exceptional. But Sam isn't just fast, he's got the brains to match it. With a Master's in Sport Science and a future in physiotherapy, he offers expert insights to help athletes get faster. Tune in as Helen Gorman uncovers top tips, training secrets, and the science behind speed.

Kat Greenslade reflects on an elite career that saw her win Commonwealth and European Championship medals. Her career was building perfectly towards the 2020 Olympic Trials until Covid and a freak injury hit.Now working as a doctor, Kat explains that Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) ended her elite career but that masters swimming with Trafford Metro SC drew her back to the pool with incredible success in 2024.

Cate Jackson broke a British masters record exactly one year after major surgery to remove a brain tumour. She tells her story openly and eloquently. Enjoy memories from swimming at Millfield School and reaching an individual final representing Guernsey at the 1982 Commonwealth Games in Brisbane, Australia. Hosted by Helen Gorman. 

Three intrepid ice swimmers chat to Helen Gorman about their success at the Ice Swimming World Championships in Malveno, Italy. Jonathan Saunders, Wendy Figures and Lili May Mustoe prevailed in nearly freezing water, and are keen to encourage others to give it a go! If the incentive of prize money doesn't persuade you, their enthusiasm might!

Olympic gold medalist (and masters world record holder), Anna Hopkin, reflects on her career and, having recently retired, discusses what comes next. She talks about the intense focus she had training in the US that helped her become one of the best sprinters in the world. Helen Gorman hosts.

Triple Olympian, Roland Lee, reflects on his Team GB, Army and Masters Swimming Career. Roland swam at the 1984, 1988 and 1992 Olympic Games. He reflects on unusual twists and turns that led him to Olympic selection as well as world masters records and a long career in the Army.Helen Gorman hosts.

This week we're joined by Amanda Heath, Martin Bennell and Bob Bolton to debate what they each believe is the toughest event in swimming - hosted by Helen Gorman.

Dawn Kissack is just 0.2 off the world record for 50m freestyle in the 60-64 age group. She talks us through her training and coaching philosophy as well as her backstory from growing up in Sheffield to living in Scotland.

It's the Christmas Special Podcast for 2024! Host Helen Gorman is joined by Olly Espinasse, Joan Edwards and Joe Malone.Thank you to everyone for listening to the podcast this year. We will be back on 7 January after a two-week Christmas break.

This week former Loughborough Head Coach Ian Hulme talks about his new venture, Signiture Swim Coaching, providing online personalised swim programmes to any swimmer. Ian spent 12 years coaching elite swimmers at Loughborough University, and guided a number of athletes to this year's Paris Olympics.

Nick Parkes has made a full recovery from a cardiac arrest at the National Masters Open Water Championships in 2023.He tells his remarkable story, including getting back to record breaking form at the National Masters Championships in Sheffield just over a year later.

This week, Dr Conor Osborough applies his Olympic and Paralympic biomechanics experience to masters swimmers hoping to achieve speed and longevity in the pool.

Doctor and masters record holder Dom Wooldridge joins the podcast this week to talk about his training routine amid a testing career and lifestyle.

Sports Psychologist Helen Davis joins the podcast once more to talk about motivation, hosted by Helen Gorman.

Pullbuoy first came to light in 2000 thanks to founder Steve Buckley, providing a fan's eye view of British Swimming. 24 years later, it's still going strong. Steve joins Helen Gorman this week on the podcast to chat about that, and review the Masters National Championships that took place at the end of October.Check out Pullbuoy's feature film launched in early 2024; Imogen Clark, Leaving It All In The Pool, on the website: https://www.pullbuoy.co.uk/imogen/

Glenn Smith joins the podcast this week to talk about his role in the rise of Olympic and Paralympic swimmers at Mansfield Swimming Club.

Host Helen Gorman is joined by Julie Hoyle and Joe Malone to preview all the action across the weekend in Sheffield.

Rob Shaw is a record holder masters swimmer. He's also a cancer surviver. Listen to his story, hosted by Helen Gorman.

Hattie Pearson is a Radio DJ on Hits Radio. She is also a triathlete. Find out what songs get her through her swims, which songs she hates to have stuck in her head, and how she found a love for triathlon. 

This week, host Helen Gorman is joined by City of Cardiff coach Graham Wardell. They discuss the none negotiables for swimmers if they want to achieve longevity in swimming, despite life often getting in the way. Mentions also for Dara Torres, Florent Manaudou and Sarah Sjöström and how they have shown the way to achieving big despite their ages.

Host Helen Gorman - a world record breaststroker herself - is joined by a fellow breaststroke record holder Ian Swift of City of Sheffield Swimming Club for this week's episode.

Trafford Metro's Rebecca Lennon has had quite the journey in swimming. From a top-level 200m backstroker in her formative years, to a marathon swimmer in her adult life, she is currently training to swim the English Channel. Rebecca talks to host Helen Gorman.

Host Helen Gorman is joined by Maggie Kelly MBE, who competed at the 1976, 1980 and 1988 Olympics. Maggie discusses her swimming career on the elite stage and her transition into masters swimming.

Host Helen Gorman is joined by Jo and Tony Corben to chat all about the Olympics, Paralympics, European Masters Champs, among other things.Give Helen Gorman a shout out following her first hosting gig!

The Freestyle Media podcast is ending how it started, with Kath Tunnicliffe, Beth Hogg and Joe Malone talking all things swimming.We discuss joining new swimming clubs, tailoring training, competing around the world and share our favourite memories of the last 100 episodes of the podcast.Get 15% off goggles from TheMagic5 by using the link www.themagic5.com/freestylemedialimitedGet a personalised strength and mobility programme at www.oxolt.com

This week we're joined by Jonathan Saunders, masters swimmer and member of the Masters Working Group, to discuss what we know so far about the Swim England Masters Nationals Championships, following the release of the schedule for the weekend. 

This week, masters swimmer and triathlon coach John Wood joins the podcast once more to discuss when to accelerate and decelerate your training, and what to do when life gets busy but you don't want to let go of your hard work. From perfect training conditions, to only getting one small swim in per week, and everything in between, we've got you covered in this conversation.Get 15% off products from TheMagic5 by using the link: www.themagic5.com/freestylemedialimitedGet a strength and mobility programme at www.oxolt.com

Former Great Britain Olympian and silver medallist, Siobhan-Marie O'Connor, joins the podcast this week to talk about coaching actress Daisy Ridley who stars as Trudy Ederle in Disney's Young Woman and the Sea, set to be released on 31 May 2024.Siobhan-Marie discusses how she landed the job, what Daisy's starting base was, and the programme she undertook to help turn Daisy into a top-class swimmer. Trudy Ederle was, of course, the first women to swim the English Channel, and the film is based on those events that saw her make history in the open water.Thank you to Siobhan-Marie and Disney for making this conversation happen.Get 15% off products from TheMagic5 by using the link: www.themagic5.com/freestylemedialimitedGet a personalised strength and mobility programme at www.oxolt.com

Masters swimmer John Griffin is on course to complete his challenge in 2024 of swimming a million metres, while aiming to raise £1 million in the process for the Cornish Air Ambulance. John is 70-years-of-age and has never swam this distance over a period of a year before, but wanted to set himself a lofty challenge in retirement. He lives in Cornwall and the Air Ambulance is close to his heart. Listen to John's approach, training regime and fundraising feats in this engaging chat.If you would like to donate to John's JustGiving page, click here: https://justgiving.com/page/john-griffin-1710870062969Get 15% off products from TheMagic5 by using the link: www.themagic5.com/freestylemedialimitedGet a personalised strength and mobility programme at www.oxolt.com 

This week, Chris Malpass of Trafford Metro joins to discuss what went into organising Trafford's first-ever masters meet - from creating a working group months in advance, to defining the schedule of events, and choosing the music to play on the day.Get 15% off all product from TheMagic5 by using the link: www.themagic5.com/freestylemedialimitedGet a personalised strength and mobility programme at www.oxolt.com

Do you have to get on the blocks on a certain side? Do you have to eat a certain meal the day before? Or do you have to go to the toilet in the same cubicle each time (cough cough, Julie)? In this episode, Helen Sadler, Julie Hoyle and Helen Gorman discuss their race day superstitions and other crazy behaviours they know other swimmers have.Get 15% off products from TheMagic5 by using the link: www.themagic5.com/freestylemediaswimmingGet a personalised strength and mobility programme at www.oxolt.com

This week on Freestyle Media, swimmers Helen Gorman, Dan Mills and Katie Moore, along with Trafford Metro coach Bob Bolton, take part in a discussion on training volume. Is there a perfect amount and, if so, what is it? Get 15% off a pair of custom-fit goggles from TheMagic5 by using the affiliate link www.themagic5.com/freestylemedialimited Get a personalised strength and mobility programme at www.oxolt.com

Amanda Heath competes in the 65-69 age category and is a serial medal winner and world champion. Records are a source of motivation for Amanda which keeps the fire burning bright for her. She considers swimming competitions a chance to compete but also spend time with her 'swimming family'. This is Through The Water With Amanda Heath.Get 15% off products from TheMagic5 by using the link: www.themagic5.com/freestylemedialimitedGet a personalised strength and mobility programme at www.oxolt.com

Here we go, then! Everything you need in the build up to the British Masters Championships, taking place in Swansea, Wales across three days. Host Joe Malone is joined by Jonathan Saunders, Jamie McHale and David Westcough to discuss the swimming, the travelling and the downtime across the weekend.Ger 15% off products from TheMagic5 using the link: www.themagic5.com/freestylemediaGet a personalised strength and mobility programme at www.oxolt.com

This year Andy Jameson celebrates his 36th year in the commentary box, following a successful swimming career of his own that saw him win medals on the Olympic, Commonwealth, world and European stage. Andy is the voice you hear when tuning into the swimming on the BBC, over many years including all the major competitions. Reflecting on his time as a commentator, and the recent Aquatics GB Swimming Championships, Andy discusses some of his most memorable moments behind the mic.Get 15% off products from TheMagic5 by using the link: www.themagic5.com/freestylemedialimitedGet a personalised strength and mobility programme at www.oxolt.com

After British Swimming announced its rebrand to Aquatics GB last week, Sports Reporter Nick Hope jumped on the podcast to discuss what this means for our sport and the advantages it could give the whole aquatics umbrella, including masters swimming. We also discuss Olympic Trials and, well, Easter eggs...Get 15% off products from TheMagic5 by using the link: www.themagic5.com/freestylemedialimitedGet a personalised strength and mobility programme at www.oxolt.com

Recently crowned a double World Masters Champion for the 400 and 800 freestyle in Doha, Dan Mills recalls his swimming journey that saw him become age group champion as a teenager and go on to compete at the Youth Olympics. After a year of full-time training as an 18 year old, Dan decided to head to university and study medicine, and has since competed on the masters stage, to quite an outstanding level. This is Through The Water With Dan Mills. Get 15% off products from TheMagic5 by using the link www.themagic5.com/freestylemedialimitedGet a personalised strength and mobility programme at www.oxolt.com

This week I speak once more to John Wood, who recently competed at a licensed meet and made the qualifying time for the 100m butterfly for Olympic Trials in April this year.The Trials will be held at the London Aquatics Centre and John - who is 37 and last qualified for an Olympic Trials 20 years ago - hopes to enjoy the experience and take on a no-pressure mentality. John discusses how he's got faster over the years and how his training is simple but on point. Get 15% off products from TheMagic5 by using the link: www.themagic5.com/freestylemedialimitedGet a personalised strength and mobility programme at www.oxolt.com

This week, Beth Hogg joins to talk about how we can make the pathway to masters swimming a more attractive proposition to age group, senior and university swimmers. Such a small percentage of swimmers 'make it', but the rest can still experience the best years of their swimming lives at masters level - breaking PBs, setting records and winning medals. Get 15% off products from TheMagic5 by using the link www.themagic5.com/freestylemedialimitedGet a personalised strength and mobility programme at www.oxolt.com

Ben Shaw has two passions: swimming and fashion. In 2022, he decided to merge the two and create his own brand, named Last Is Fast (LIF). 18 months on, he now sells a range of products including swimming caps, t-shirts, hoodies and more, through his website and at pop-up shops at swimming competitions. Ben talks about how he came to setting up his brand, how it's been going and where he plans to take it in the future. You can check out the website at www.lastisfast.co.ukGet 15% off products from TheMagic5 by using the code www.themagic5.com/freestylemedialimitedVisit www.oxolt.com to get a personalised strength and mobility training programme