Cold water swimming aesthetic

Rebecca Mead on the Britons who are skipping the heated pool and rediscovering the pleasures of lakes, rivers, and seas, even in winter.

fell in love with this ice cold water in Berchtesgaden National Park in Germany

The social, physical and mental health benefits of cold water swimming are well known, but what happens to your body, scientifically speaking, when you enter cold water? Last year a group of scientists put together a report into the effects of extreme cold water on the body.

Lucy Laucht says wild swimming in England has changed her life.

Cold-water swimming has seen a boom in popularity over the past several years, with its enthusiasts saying it helps with mood, energy and even menopause.

Trip to loch with friends for a cold water swim. Such a refreshing free feeling 🏊🏼‍♀️☀️💦 #coldwatertherapy #loch #wildswimming #scotland #summer2022

KIRA 🍁 OUTDOOR x ADVENTURE 🍂 on Instagram: “50% exciting and 50% scary (the hole is 150 m deep plus it‘s actually way too cold to swim in there for longer than a few seconds)!”

Swimming in oceans and lakes can seem daunting, but these pointers from seasoned coaches and triathletes will help you build confidence and fitness in the pool before taking the plunge