Is cold water swimming good for you?
Although sometimes exaggerated, the benefits of cold water swimming are slowly becoming clearer.
The popularity of cold water swimming has skyrocketed, especially in northern Europe, where groups like the Blue Tits Chill Swimmers eschew tropical beach holidays in favor of frigid winter swimming. Celebrity practitioners such as actors Kate Winslet and Bradley Cooper have increased the fame of this chilled pastime.
As far back as 400 BC, Hippocrates claimed that swimming in cold water reduces fatigue. Since then, enthusiasts believe it has a variety of benefits, from improving sleep to increasing sex drive.
In a recent study of 1,114 female cold water swimmers, post-reproductive health, more than one-third reported that their hobbies helped ease mood swings associated with menstruation and menopause. Among menopausal respondents, 47% said their anxiety was reduced, 30% said their hot flashes were reduced, and 20% said their night sweats were reduced.
About supporting science journalism
If you enjoyed this article, please consider supporting our award-winning journalism. Currently subscribing. By subscribing, you help ensure future generations of influential stories about the discoveries and ideas that shape the world today.
People who took cold water baths reported less pain from musculoskeletal injuries, fewer symptoms of depression, and an overall increase in alertness and alertness. One study reported improved mood after just one soak.
James B. Mercer, emeritus physiologist at the Norwegian Arctic University UiT and lead author of a scientific review of 104 studies on cold water immersion, said: “I don't know anyone who does this activity who doesn't think it's bad.'' There's no one who can say that.” “They all swear by it. They think it's the greatest thing in the world.”
However, Mercer added that it is “very difficult” to evaluate health claims about cold water swimming. That's partly because most studies on the subject are small, participants are generally healthy, and water temperatures and salinity levels vary widely. Researchers have struggled to figure out whether cold water itself helps, or whether the benefits come from, say, an active lifestyle or socializing with friends.
“Most claims have no evidence or very weak evidence,” says Heather Massey, a physiologist at the University of Portsmouth. In addition to co-authoring several papers on cold water immersion, Massey swam the English Channel and dabbled in competitive “ice swimming” (swimming in water colder than 41 degrees Fahrenheit).
Still, the science doesn't simply undermine the perceived benefits. Although more research is needed, rigorous research shows that regular exposure to cold water may help fight obesity, cardiovascular disease, inflammation, muscle pain, and diabetes, and may also help the body cope with other stressors. It is suggested that there is a possibility of preparation. Improvements in mental health are largely anecdotal. A 2018 case study followed a young woman weaning herself off antidepressants through cold water swimming therapy. Recruitment is currently underway for a randomized controlled trial on outdoor swimming and depression.
Cold water swimming comes with risks. Hypothermia, drowning and heart arrhythmia can occur, and experts warn that people with pre-existing health conditions should consult a doctor before attempting a polar bear dive. He also recommends taking it easy, relaxing and not working alone if possible.
Proponents argue that there is no substitute for “a feeling of euphoria followed by peace,” says Joyce C., a reproductive researcher at University College London and lead author of a study on menstruation and menopause.・Mr. Harper says.
“I recently swam in a semi-frozen lake and burst into uncontrollable laughter,” Harper says. If the water is too warm, she added, “it loses some of its resonance.”
