DIVE OUTDOORS
When indoor pools were forced to close their doors, many found themselves picking up their towels, donning their swimwear and heading for the nearest body of open water – cue the emergence of the UK’s hottest cold-water hobby: outdoor swimming, says Rosa Smith
If it seems like almost everyone has taken up outdoor swimming recently, or at least knows someone who has, then perhaps it’s not surprising that Outdoor Swimmer Magazine’s (OSM) Trends Report 2021 revealed that participation has increased by between one-and-a-half and three times since 2019, with a 94% increase in the search term ‘wild swimming’ during 2020.
What exactly is outdoor swimming? There are varying definitions, with “wild swimming” conjuring up more holistic images of individuals taking to natural water sources such as the sea, rivers and lakes. But outdoor swimming also encompasses more purpose-built facilities, including lidos and open-air pools.
And why has there been such a noticeable rise in the number of people taking to the water? The pandemic, of course, highlighted the importance of looking after our physical and mental health, something which outdoor swimming – if not fully scientifically, at least anecdotally proven – seems to help. Dedicated swimmers and first-timers alike report an increased sense of well-being, with 43.4% of those surveyed by OSM claiming that ‘health and well-being’ are the main reasons they swim outside, and 69.4% citing outdoor swimming as important for their mental health.
In fact, according to the Cornwall website for Mind, there are six ways in which outdoor swimming can help improve your mental health alone, including the boost effect that cold-water immersion has on dopamine levels, and the increased release of endorphins, as well as a sense of mindfulness. The strong physical sensations, combined with the initial mental rejection of the cold water, allow a real connection between body and mind, and an awareness of nothing but the present moment.
Nature has long been considered an important source of therapy, or “ecotherapy”. Simple and free, just the sensation of being outdoors, surrounded by nature, has long proved to have an overwhelmingly positive impact on mental health. And, of course, if you choose to wild swim in a purely natural environment – such as a lake, river or the sea – you experience the fully immersive and unique benefits of being not just surrounded by nature, but at one with it.
As for the science behind the benefits, the findings are very much embryonic, but the subject of an increasing amount of focus. According to a BBC Travel article published earlier this year, a team at the University of Portsmouth is monitoring cold-water swimmers, and collecting testimonies from members of the Outdoor Swimming Society about the benefits for conditions including depression, anxiety, arthritis, menopausal symptoms, MS and migraine. A study published in the British Medical Journal Case Reports also reveals that cold-water swimming may be an effective treatment for depression. This plays on the theory that entering cold water can help to build mental resilience: one form of stress – here the physical shock on the body from entering cold water – can help to adapt the body for another, in this instance the stress caused by depression and anxiety. In addition, evidence suggests that the effects of cold water are beneficial to the immune system, blood circulation and metabolism.
One factor with much widely approved scientific backing is the fact that outdoor swimming, above all, is exercise – one of the most important parts of maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Swimming is also recognised as a great form of low-impact exercise, making it particularly joint- and muscle-friendly.
Whether it’s the sense of anticipation, the dopamine-induced high, or the small mental victory of having overcome the fight-or-flight sensation when first entering cold water – outdoor swimming is addictive
Of course, outdoor swimming is not without its dangers. Respect and understanding for the natural world are vital for a safe swim, particularly in water where currents and tides are at play, as well as the hidden risks of particularly deep or cold water. It’s always advisable to swim with another person, or at least let someone know when and where you are going. In the winter months, cold-water shock is also a concern, and the advice is consistent against jumping in or submerging your body suddenly, being sensible about how long you stay in, and ensuring you have sufficiently warm clothing for when you get out, including a warm hat and every outdoor swimmer’s favourite – the dryrobe®.
With the increase in people diving into the UK’s many natural bodies of water, comes an increased awareness of the level of pollution. According to OSM’s data, 60% of swimmers worry about pollution and the risk of illness it poses. There is pressure to make more popular swim spots designated bathing waters-approved, meaning information on bacteria levels and pollution would be publicly available, allowing bathers to make an informed decision when entering open waters.
If you’re thinking of taking the plunge, then joining a swimming group is a good way to start, with communities of enthusiasts springing up locally all over the UK, and The Outdoor Swimming Society reporting a 36% growth in membership in 2020. A simple online search will provide a list of your local groups, and a wider selection of designated holidays and trips, should you choose. Safety and convenience aside, joining a group is a great way of meeting new people – with the guarantee that you, at least, have one thing in common.
If you like the idea of wild swimming, but fancy something a little more convenient and with creature comforts, then natural swimming pools are also increasing in popularity in the UK. With the appearance of a (very clean) pond, a natural swimming pool is a great private, wild-swim alternative, with the guarantee of health benefits, but the convenience of being in your own garden, and clean water – even heated if you wish. Natural pools can be built and controlled by different means, but the objective remains the same, in that no chemicals are used, and the water is kept pure through plants and shingle, amongst other means.
Whether it’s the sense of anticipation, the dopamine-induced high, or the small mental victory of having overcome the fight-or-flight sensation when first entering cold water, outdoor swimming is addictive – with an ever-increasing community of devotees. Whether a pandemic-induced fad, or hobby that’s here to stay – if it makes you feel good, grab a wetsuit, warm hat, towel, and go for it.