04/11/2025
I’ve been asked a lot recently about starting wild swimming in winter… ❄️
There’s no doubt that cold water gives you an incredible natural high — a surge of energy, a boost to your mood, and that clear-headed calm that keeps you smiling for hours afterwards. It’s powerful, and it’s one of the reasons so many of us keep dipping right through winter. 💙
But — it’s also a time to take extra care. As the temperatures drop, so does the margin for error. What feels refreshing in autumn can quickly turn risky by midwinter.
Ideally, the best time to start your cold water journey is between May and September, when the water is milder and your body can adapt gradually to the cold.
That said, if you’re determined to get your head down and start in winter — do it the right way. Go slowly, build up exposure carefully, and never go alone. Even better, book a couple of introductory sessions with a qualified coach or experienced guide who can help you understand safe entry and exit, breathing control, and how to manage the after drop once you’re out.
Winter swimming can be life-changing for both mind and body — but it’s best approached with respect, knowledge, and a sense of community.
Wrap up warm, swim safe, and enjoy that unbeatable buzz that only cold water brings. 🌊✨
