ActiveWater SportsFive things you must always do when cold water swimmingFrom warming up gradually to dressing appropriately, here’s five tips that will help you and your cold water swimWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
ActiveWater SportsFive things you must always do when cold water swimmingFrom warming up gradually to dressing appropriately, here’s five tips that will help you and your cold water swimWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
From warming up gradually to dressing appropriately, here’s five tips that will help you and your cold water swim
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
(Image credit: Getty Images)
These days you only have to open your social media before you stumble across someone wrapped up in their dry robe, or cautiously pacing into an idyllic-looking lake. Cold water swimming may not be new, but recently it’s risen rapidly in popularity with the Instagram hastag #coldwaterswimming racking up more than 400,000 posts.
Keen to give it a go? Outdoor retailersBlacksshare five things you should always do when braving the cold water…
1. Dress appropriately
(Image credit: Getty Images)
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Taking your first steps into the cold water is hard enough, but it’ll be made even harder if you aren’t wearing the right attire and could lead to hypothermia. Agood quality wetsuit, especially in the winter months, will help retain body heat, whereas in the summer you may opt for a thermal neoprene layer. A swimming cap, neoprene gloves, boots andswimming gogglesare also advised.
2. Warm up gradually
To prevent a rapid drop in body temperature it’s crucial you warm up after your cold water swim. But, you must do this gradually.Do notjump straight into a hot shower, as this can send your body into shock and increase the risk of after drop. Instead, take your wet kit off (adry robeis handy as you can still change without worrying about your modesty) and dry yourself down. Having a mat to stand on is also handy to prevent losing heat from your feet.
Opt for loose baggy clothes that are warm and easy to pull on, like afleece jacket, abeanie hat, joggers and a nice pair ofwarm socks. Sip on a warm, un-caffinated drink and eat a sugary snack. Then, if you choose to shower, make sure it’s warm, not boiling.
3. Avoid swimming alone
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(Image credit: Getty Images)
(Image credit: Getty Images)
4. Monitor water temperatures
5. Listen to your body
Knowing your limits and being aware of how your body responds to cold water is important. If you’ve gone with a friend, or a group, it may be tempting to try and hold out as long as the rest, but you need to listen to your body. Pay close attention to any signs of discomfort, fatigue or numbness that you may experience when swimming. If you feel extremely cold or experience cramps, exit the water immediately and warm up.
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