Question: What are the effects of cold water on our body whilst wild swiming?

Eóghan Forde answered on 22 Jun 2018:

Hello Rome,

I enjoy wild swimming a lot!

Many people suggest the good health benefits associated with cold wild swimming, however, for safety reasons I always consider these risks: Cold shock (this is the body’s reaction to sudden cold. It begins with gasping for air and can sometimes lead to uncontrolled breathing (hyperventilation). This is a good reason not to jump into water unless it’s over 15°C or you’re ready for this temperature change (acclimatised). Cramp in your muscles can also quite often strike anywhere and if you do happen to cramp up, float on your back and call for help. Likewise, people ignore the risks of hypothermia after they have been swimming as it usually takes some time to become hypothermic. You need to be aware of this when you get out of the cold water and begin to warm up, as warm blood from your core body will cool quickly in your peripheral blood vessels. This is usually the point you begin to shiver (it’s the body’s attempt to generate heat). I hope this helps!