Wild swimming in Edinburgh helped personal trainer improve mental health during lockdown

Edinburgh personal trainer and wild swimming enthusiast is encouraging locals to spend more time outdoors to improve their mental health during the pandemic.

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Research from Mental Health Foundation Scotland found that one third of Scots spent less than three hours in nature per week, with 11 per cent spending no more than one hour a week in nature.

The same research found that being around outdoors boosts two-thirds of Scots mood and helps establish and maintain good mental health.

Jamie Hamill, 23, personal trainer at G2G Coaching Gym in Charlotte Square

Fitness enthusiast Jamie Hamill has taken up wild swimming during lockdown after the isolation of lockdown left him feeling “quite low”.

The 23-year-old is now encouraging other people in Edinburgh to take the plunge and get involved in the various outdoor activities available in the Capital.

From wild swimming to a walk in the park, Mr Hamill is keen to promote the various ways the city’s green spaces can help improve local's overall wellbeing.

He said: “Nature to me is an escape from busy city life, even if you’re just in a park or up Arthur’s Seat, which is still in the middle of the city.

Fitness enthusiast Jamie Hamill has taken up wild swimming during lockdown.

“Getting outdoors and connecting with nature has been so important for my mental health, particularly during lockdown.

“There was a time during the first lockdown when I spent about seven weeks alone, and going outside for a wee walk or a run lifted my mood massively when I was feeling quite low and isolated.”

Working both online with clients and out of G2G Coaching Gym in Charlotte Square Mr Hamill offers various classes helping people to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

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