‘Dry strokers’ are the gross swimmers plaguing UK pools and lidos

There’s one piece of pool etiquette you don’t want to neglect this summer (Picture: Getty Images/fStop) While temperatures might be easing, there are still plenty of chances to make the most of your local lido this summer. And if you’re squeezing in a dip after a long morning walk or finally submerging at the end of the day, you’ll likely be covered in suncream, perfume, deodorant, make-up and, let’s face it, sweat. That’s why there are signs all over the place in changing rooms urging swimmers to have a quick shower before diving in. Except, how many of us actually do it? Where there are rules, there are rule-breakers. At Metro, we’ve previously reported on shocking swimming habits, from ‘toe touching’ (oh, the horrors) to ‘itchy’ pool sex. Ask Metro Use AI to go deeper into the stories you care about – powered by Metro and trusted publications. Now, we’ve invented a new term for people who rebuke a pre-swim shower: ‘dry strokers.’ I’m a regular at my local pool, and I’m proud to say I always hop in the shower before taking to the lanes. But I often notice dry strokers sneakily skipping this step and heading straight into the shallow end, completely bone dry. The thought of swimming in water that’s contaminated by unnecessary germs makes me shudder and frankly, it’s just gross. I don’t expect you to be squeaky clean, as though you just stepped out of an everything shower, but let’s have a little decorum, please. Why is a pre-swim shower so important? I’m not just being needlessly judgey. As GP Dr Ross Perry tells Metro, showering before diving in isn’t ‘just a courtesy, but an important hygiene measure that helps protect both you and other swimmers.’ He explains: ‘Throughout the day, our skin accumulates sweat, oils, dead skin cells, cosmetics, deodorant, sunscreen, and bacteria. Latest heatwave news and guidance ‘If you enter a pool without showering first, all of these substances are washed off into the water. ‘While disinfectants such as chlorine are designed to kill harmful micro-organisms, they also have to work harder when there is a higher load of organic matter and contaminants in the pool. ‘For other swimmers, it contributes to a greater overall contamination burden, which can affect water quality and increase the likelihood of skin, eye and ear irritation.’ Please, plonk yourself under the water before you swim (Picture: Getty Images) If you’re feeling particularly selfish, there’s a reason for engaging in this practice beyond making the experience more pleasant for everyone else. Dr Ross says if you skip this crucial step, you’re carrying ‘more bacteria and debris into the water, which can potentially increase your exposure to irritants and reduce the effectiveness of the pool’s sanitation system.’ He adds: ‘When sweat, urine traces, cosmetics, and personal care products mix with chlorine, they can also create chemical by-products known as chloramines. ‘These are often responsible for the strong “chlorine smell” associated with pools and can cause red eyes, respiratory irritation, and skin discomfort in some individuals. ‘A quick rinse with soap before swimming significantly reduces the amount of contaminants entering the pool. It’s a simple step that helps maintain cleaner water, allows disinfectants to work more effectively, and creates a healthier environment for everyone using the facility.’ Chlorine doesn’t smell that way naturally… (Picture: Getty Images/Mint Images RF) ‘A cloud of dirt would engulf the pool’ I’m not the only one who has repeatedly been irked by this; the concept has been hotly debated on the r/Swimming Subreddit, where a poll asked people to confirm whether they shower before swimming in a public pool. Out of 2,700 votes, 1,200 people said yes, while 1,400 people said no. One user, who goes by the handle @16km, wrote: ‘I used to go to a gym… there was a guy who worked as a landscaper and would jump in the pool without rinsing off. ‘There would be a cloud of dirt and foliage that would engulf the pool.’ @RevHenryMagoo revealed they recently asked two men to rinse off before heading into the pool straight after the sauna. Unfortunately, he was met with hostility. ‘They got an attitude and said: “This is a public pool and it’s bound to be gross,”‘ the Redittor penned. There are some people, however, who have admitted to skipping this crucial step. @CurseUmbreon acknowledged they knew they were ‘going against the grain’ by admitting it, writing: ‘[I’ve] been swimming competitively since I was four years old and I’ve never once rinsed off before getting in.’ They were promptly told by commenters that ‘nothing should go in the pool but you.’ So, the next time you walk from the changing rooms to the pool, be sure to make one crucial stop on your way: the shower cubicles. Deals of the Day Parents can save up to 30% on Kickers school shoes ahead of the new term The back-to-school hack that's helping parents avoid queues and sold-out sizes Could your hair be wavy rather than straight? This brand thinks so Could your star sign improve your skincare routine? This new beauty launch thinks so Best skincare for menopausal skin? This dermatologist-created treatment is tailored to you And if you can grab some soap while you’re at it, even better. Lidos in the south of England for a cold dip this summer If a bit of lido tourism tickles your fancy, there are plenty of options across the south of England. In May, the historic Brightlingsea Lido reopened for the summer. The Essex spot sits right by the sea, and while it was originally a creek, in 1932, it was converted into a tidal saltwater pool. It’s pretty cheap too, with adult admission costing just £7.50, and children over two can enter for £5.50 — under twos go free. You can also hire inflatables for £4.50 and sunbeds for £2.50. That’s not the only option. New research has revealed the best spots in the world for a refreshing cold water dip, and Brockwell Lido in South London has made the list. Assessing the top 20 destinations across the globe, the study ranked each one based on the number of positive reviews, and it came in 19th place. That’s right: not just in the UK, but the entire world. How’s that for a strong summer plan? Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@metro.co.uk Arrow MORE: As millions didn’t get the emergency phone alert – here’s exactly what you need to know Arrow MORE: Millions startled by emergency alert with wildfire warning after UK blazes Arrow MORE: Disposable barbecues temporarily banned due to ‘significant risk to public’ The Slice Your free newsletter guide to the best London has on offer, from drinks deals to restaurant reviews.