The science of long distance swimming

An IAS public talk by Heather Massey, Associate Professor, Extreme Environments Laboratory, University of Portsmouth

Long-distance swimming places unique demands on the human body and mind, requiring exceptional endurance, efficient movement, temperature regulation, and psychological resilience. This talk explores the physiology behind sustained swimming performance, including energy metabolism, thermoregulation, fatigue, recovery, nutrition, hydration, and the adaptations that enable swimmers to perform in challenging open-water environments. Drawing on research and real-world examples, it will provide insights into the science that underpins Heather successful English Channel Solo swim.

Heather Massey is an Associate Professor within the School of Psychology, Sport and Health Sciences. She has been a member of the Extreme Environments Laboratory since 2007 where she completed a PhD in the area of Environmental Cross-adaptation in Humans. Prior to that she worked at the Institute of Naval Medicine within the Environmental Medicine Unit for six years. Heather’s research interests are in the area of water safety and the potential therapeutic use of cold water immersion. She is a UWA Institute of Advanced Studies Visiting Fellow.