Why we swim in the cold sea through autumn and winter

After a morning swim out through the caves at Beer, I found myself sitting over a post-swim coffee at Chapples Beach Cafe when someone asked what we were training for. I said we were preparing for some planned summer endurance challenges.

Training in cold water offers benefits that simply cannot be replicated in a chlorinated pool — benefits that will pay off when it comes to swimming longer distances in the summer.

Here’s my more detailed rationale, however, at WiLDS Swim, we also do it for kicks and giggles!

Cold Water Acclimatisation

This is maintained even if the exposure gets shorter or you jump into neoprene. Our bodies get stronger in the cold, too. Various studies report improvements in circulation, metabolism, and overall endurance. When the summer swims roll around, we'll be ready for longer distances.

Mental Resilience

Swimming in colder water isn’t easy, and in the first few minutes, your body screams to get out. Staying in builds mental toughness, teaching us how to stay calm and focused even when the conditions get tough. It’s a confidence builder.

Swimming Efficiency

The cold makes every stroke count. To handle the discomfort, you’re forced to be efficient with your technique rather than relying on brute effort. That discipline translates into better pacing and stroke control when we’re putting the miles down in the pool, as well as in the summer months.

Preparing for Chop, Swell, and Tide

Autumn and winter often bring rougher, unpredictable waves. Training in those conditions means we’ll be more comfortable in the open water come summer, no matter what the sea throws our way.

Key Takeaway

It’s got to be fun and safe, and it's best done with others. But it is all about building the strength, resilience, and skills that will yield endurance benefits come the summer months. A good coffee or hot chocolate after the training is another reward for completing a cold swim!