#135: Is Masters Swimming Breaking the Bank?

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.