Leap In: A Woman, Some Waves, and the Will To Swim

Following up on her previous memoir about learning to run (Running Like a Girl), journalist Heminsley takes on the sport of open-water swimming in this autobiographical work. As a novice swimmer, Heminsley recounts her many challenges in learning to cover long distances in the cold waters of Brighton, UK. From the hazards of tight wetsuits to the difficulty of proper breathing technique, the author lays bare the physical struggle of mastering a confounding new sport. Heminsley's pursuit of athletic prowess is a metaphor for her desire to overcome anxieties and self-perceived limitations, as she and her husband eventually face a larger struggle with potential infertility and IVF treatments. While early chapters sometimes feel unsubstantial, with occasional lengthy descriptions, this work offers inspiration for swimmers ready to take the plunge into the unknown. Included are sections on the history of swimming, stroke technique, and recommendations on swimming equipment.