Cold water swimming is a full-body workout that offers numerous physical benefits. You will gain muscle strength, as resistance from cold water forces your muscles to work harder, which helps build strength and endurance. Cold water swimming also burns more calories than swimming in a pool or warmer waters, due to the body fighting to maintain its core temperature. Whilst cold water swimming conjures images of blue fingers and toes, an icy dip actually improves circulation, as immersing yourself in cold water forces your blood to flow more efficiently, pumping oxygen and nutrients to your organs and muscles. Subsequently, cold water can numb nerve endings and reduce the sensation of pain, making it a natural remedy for sore muscles and joint pain. For those often in the gym or taking part in strenuous activity, cold water is a go-to recovery tool, as it decreases inflammation and speeds up recovery time. Sea swimmers will even see the benefits in their skin, as salt water is rich in magnesium, potassium, and calcium, which can improve skin conditions and has antiseptic properties, helping heal minor skin damage.

Additionally, multiple studies have suggested that regular cold water swimming can boost the immune system and metabolism. For more insights into the science behind these benefits, you can check out Bristol-based swimming instructor Laura Nesbitt’s article on the science of cold water swimming.

A grey day in January, when the winds howl and rain drives most people inside. But not the cold water swimmers. Groups of changing-robe clad dippers huddle like penguins on the shores of sheltered spots and sea pools. Encouraged by like-minded individuals, you’ll see cold water swimmers taking the plunge and sharing the experience with friends, whatever the weather. The sense of community and camaraderie is second to none, and it’s a great activity for making new friends. 

Swimming is safest in a group, or with at least one other person, and there are many organisations all over the country that you can join to get involved in the cold water community. Accessible to all, swimming in outside spaces is completely free, making it a great activity for everyone. Read about how the community at Clevedon Marine Lake a created sense of kinship through open water swimming.

Notably one of the most important reasons to take the plunge in modern society, cold water swimming is incredibly beneficial for your mental health. It releases endorphins and boosts dopamine, which is linked to improving low mood and reducing symptoms of depression. Cold water swimming requires focus, patience and presence, all of which are integral when practicing mindfulness and enjoying the present moment. This links with building your own self-discipline, as regularly braving cold water can enhance your mental fortitude, teaching you to overcome discomfort and push through challenges. Exposure to cold water also releases cortisol, which can help your body build resistance to stress over time. For this reason, cold water swimming can go hand in hand with other mentally and physically challenging activities such as long distance running, mountaineering, climbing and big wave surfing.

There’s no better way to explore bodies of water than by immersing yourself in them. Oceans, lakes, rivers, streams, ponds…cold water swimming allows you to experience the changing of the seasons, spot wildlife and learn about flora and fauna. Cold water swimming can also grant you access to areas unreachable by land, offering the swimmer a fresh perspective and a location less-explored. Whether it’s fish, birds, or marine mammals, swimming in natural waters can bring you closer to wildlife, therefore deepening an environmental appreciation in a world that now, more than ever, needs us to care.

Sudden immersion in cold water can lead to cold water shock, which may cause hyperventilation, panic, or even hypothermia in severe cases. For this reason, it’s essential to acclimatise slowly and consider wearing a wetsuit (https://finisterre.com/collections/womens-yulex-wetsuits) suited to the water temperature.

Always check the water quality before swimming. Bacteria and pollutants caused by sewage and rubbish are detrimental to marine life, and can also be harmful for us when submerged. You can use the Sewage Map via the Surfers Against Sewage website to see real-time pollution information and updates at your local beach.

Reduced Swimming Ability: Getting too cold can reduce your mobility, making swimming dangerous if you’re out of your depth or alone. Make sure you know your limits and exit the water if you start to feel weak or sluggish.

Prepare in Advance: Familiarise yourself with the basics by reading our guide on how to start cold water swimming (link to article once live).

Get the Right Gear: A Yulex wetsuit can help keep you in the water for longer, plus warm, loose layers and a changing robe are great bits of post-swim kit. Check out our article on what to wear when cold water swimming for a run down of the basics. (link to article once live).

Here at Finisterre we like to think of ourselves as cold water experts. Browse our ocean-curated clothing and accessories to find the right gear for your next in-water adventure.