A cold water plunge in the summer in Spain is what everyone needs, but what about winter? Cold water swimming has become popular in the last few years, encouraging many people to take an icy plunge even in the depths of snowy weather. Why has it become a healthy trend- Does it have health benefits or will it just give you a cold?
With the cold weather finally arriving, especially those who live by the coast, it’s a shame to let our beaches go to waste. In Spain, we don’t have to worry about snow but we can all agree a freezing cold swim is not most people’s idea of fun. However, there is evidence it is actually good for you, but like most things, it comes with its risks.
According to the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) cold water swimming has many physical and social benefits.
- Fitness: swimming can help reduce risk of heart disease, stroke and type two diabetes. Cold water is also proven to increase your calorie burn rate.
- Circulation: Cold water can help improve your circulation as the exposure redirects blood flow to your vital organs, encouraging your body to circulate blood more efficiently.
- New friends: cold water swimming creates a great community as you are a group facing a tough challenge and experience. As well as, with it being quite niche, you meet very like-minded people.
- Natural painkiller: the cold often acts as a soother, and many athletes claim it helps with muscle ache and injury.
- Mental health: outdoor swimming can boost your mood and wellbeing and helps many people calm their anxiety. The cold plunge releases the body’s stress hormones, which will eventually decrease them.
If you feel like this could become your new hobby and you would be up for the challenge, here are some important precautions you must take, as this popular sport can also be dangerous.
- Wear a wetsuit with appropriate thickness and the necessary equipment. The cold has proven benefits however you must protect yourself, it is not the same as taking a dip in the summer.
- DON’T swim alone and make sure you know your surroundings. Many people have died from swimming in rivers and the sea due to dangerous conditions and currents. If your beach doesn’t have a lifeguard (it won’t in the winter in Spain), stick to a dip in the shore and be accompanied by a group of people who are knowledgeable. Always check the weather and tides.
- Cold Water Shock: never jump or dive straight in. Cold water shock on your body causes increased heart rate and consequently increases your blood pressure. This can cause a heart attack even in young and healthy people. When you shock your body so suddenly it can also cause irregular breathing and panic which can lead to drowning. Nobody is immune to this
- Always know your national/local emergency number- In Spain it is 112.
Cold water swimming is a challenging and beneficial sport which can be enjoyed when you take the necessary precautions to do so. If you are interested in taking up this hobby, speak to your friends, get in touch with local Instagram and Facebook groups as there is bound to be a group of crazy people like you willing to take the plunge!
