May 7

May 7 10 Benefits of Cold Water Swimming

Louie CWS

Training

The Many Benefits of Cold Water Swimming

Cold water swimming has recently gained popularity as a form of therapy and exercise.

Did you know that it also offers a huge range of benefits beyond the obvious? Read on to find out more!

In this article, we'll explore the advantages of taking a dip in cold water, from boosting your immune system and improving your mental health to allowing individuals to join a community of adventure seekers.

The Benefits of Cold Water Swimming

Here are some well-known and scientifically-proven benefits of cold water swimming.

1. Can Improve Immune System Efficiency

Several studies have demonstrated the remarkable advantages that immersing yourself in freezing cold water can have on the immune system.

When you dip in cold water, your body temperature plummets, causing your white blood cells to react. As a result, cold water exposure boosts your white blood cell count, which is beneficial for your immune system.

The abrupt change in temperature helps to keep your white blood cells agile, and an adaptive immune system is better equipped to fend off unwanted illnesses.

It's no wonder that those who regularly swim in cold water have found that they are less susceptible to illness.

2. Increases Endorphins

Taking a plunge into cold water can trigger a release of endorphins, commonly referred to as "happy hormones."

These chemicals induce feelings of pleasure, making you feel fantastic, so incorporating regular cold water swimming into your routine can keep you feeling your best.

Additionally, the brain produces higher levels of dopamine when you're in cold water.

It may seem confusing that submerging in icy waters can generate feelings of happiness, as it is often uncomfortable and painful.

However, endorphins are released in response to pain, as they help alleviate discomfort. So, if you push through the initial discomfort, you'll be rewarded with an enhanced mood.

In fact, the shock of the cold water only prompts our bodies to produce more endorphins, which is excellent news!

3. Boosts Your Metabolism

Immersing yourself in freezing cold water can boost your metabolism, leading to weight loss. Yes, you heard correctly!

As your body temperature drops in cold water, your heart rate increases to keep you warm, causing you to burn calories.

Numerous scientific studies have consistently shown that you burn more calories swimming in cold water than in warm water.

Swimming in outdoor lakes or rivers, particularly those that are glacial, may help you shed pounds faster than swimming in an indoor heated pool.

However, always ensure that you fuel your body and never swim on an empty stomach.

Swimming outdoors can also be cost-effective since you don't need to pay for a leisure centre membership.

4. Helps to Reduce Pain and Inflammation

If you've ever used an ice pack to soothe a sports injury or a headache, you'll be pleased to know that cold-water swimming can have a similar effect.

Studies have demonstrated that submerging yourself in icy water after exercising can alleviate inflammation, swelling and pain. This is why athletes take ice baths, not just in films but in real life too.

While ice swimming may not be a panacea for all chronic pain, it can assist in easing any discomfort you may have experienced during a challenging week.

Additionally, endorphins can assist in lowering your pain threshold.

So, put on your wetsuit, dive into the water, and unwind.

5. Increases Libido and Supports Fertility

Pay attention! If you're looking to add some excitement to your love life, consider taking a dip in wild water.

Surprisingly, cold water swims might be the answer.

Cold water exposure can increase oestrogen and testosterone levels, making you feel more amorous than usual.

Additionally, elevated levels of these hormones have been demonstrated to enhance fertility.

So, if you and your partner are trying to conceive, plan a trip to a chilly lake. Having a higher libido can also make you feel more attractive, confident, joyful and vibrant.

6. Improves Mental Health

Studies have demonstrated that adding cold water swimming to your weekly routine can help alleviate anxiety and despondency in individuals struggling with depression.

When we're feeling stressed, we love to visit open waters. The water's temperature and serenity can calm a busy mind, providing solace in the stillness.

While the cold temperature of wild waters may shock your system, it compels you to concentrate on your breathing, which can calm your nervous system.

So, if you're having a rough day, head to the lakes!

7. Helps with Menopause Symptoms

Regrettably, menopause can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms, including headaches, anxiety, decreased libido, memory loss and hot flashes.

While we've already discussed how cold water therapy can boost libido and alleviate anxiety, it can also alleviate migraines through cold water immersion.

A group of women in Swansea, all of whom are going through menopause, meet once a week for a chilly dip, and they've shared with the BBC how their lives have improved.

8. Soothes Your Vagus Nerve

Your vagus nerve has a crucial role in triggering your fight or flight response, which can cause anxiety and stress. It also plays a vital role in regulating all of your essential organs.

Let's get technical. If you have a high vagal tone, your body can physically relax more quickly after periods of stress, thanks to the effective functioning of your parasympathetic nervous system.

Studies have shown that cold water swimming can have a calming effect on your vagus nerve.

As your heart rate drops rapidly and your intestinal and glandular production increases quickly, you can more easily relax.

9. It’s a Full-Body Workout

Whether you prefer a leisurely swim or an intense workout, cold water swimming can accommodate both - and swimming is one of the best sports for your fitness.

In fact, exercising in cold water is a great way to warm up quickly as your body burns energy to keep you warm. This is why many swimmers train in open water environments like lakes, rivers or the sea.

Aside from being a fun and adventurous activity, swimming in cold water can provide a variety of physical benefits. It can increase endurance, build muscle strength and improve cardiovascular function, all while helping you achieve weight loss and toning goals.

To make the experience more comfortable, investing in a wetsuit can greatly reduce the effects of cold water shock.

10. Enjoy the Sense of Community

Across the nation, wild water swimmers gather periodically to test their physical and mental endurance.

As humans, we crave social interaction and companionship, and joining a community of like-minded individuals can provide a sense of togetherness and boost your confidence.

Cold water swimming fosters camaraderie and friendship, which have been found to enhance our mental well-being by meeting our socio-emotional needs. Being socially connected can also increase our self-worth.

You will chuckle at the faces of fellow swimmers as they plunge into the water, bond over hot tea to warm up and establish lasting relationships with those who share similar interests.

If you join an outdoor swimming society today, we guarantee you won't regret it.

Have You Ever Tried Cold Water Swimming?

In conclusion, cold water swimming has proven to offer many benefits, including a stronger immune system, improved mental health and increased physical fitness.

It's a simple and natural way to improve overall well-being, and with proper precautions, anyone can try it.

So, whether you're looking for a new form of exercise or a way to boost your mood, give cold water swimming a try and discover the benefits for yourself.

Just remember to always prioritise your safety and listen to your body.