Cold water swimming is becoming increasingly popular among women in the UK, but a recent study led by University College London (UCL) highlights the need for enhanced support to make wild swimming sites safer and more accessible.
Published in Women's Health, the research delves into the habits and experiences of women who engage in cold water swimming. Conducted in collaboration with the University of Portsmouth, University of Sussex, University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, University of Plymouth, and Bournemouth University, the study surveyed 1,114 women aged 16 to 80 across the UK in 2022.
The findings reveal that the majority of these women (64.4%) prefer to swim in the sea, with 89% participating in cold water swimming year-round. During the summer, most women swim for 30–60 minutes (48.2%), while in the winter, the majority of swims last between 5–15 minutes (53.8%).
Earlier results from the same survey indicated that cold water swimming can significantly alleviate both physical and mental symptoms for menopausal women and improve menstrual health. Despite these benefits, the sport is not without risks, especially those related to the swimming environment.
Lead author, Professor Joyce Harper of UCL’s EGA Institute for Women’s Health, highlighted one of the key risks: the increased likelihood of gastroenteritis and other infections due to pollution in UK rivers and seas. "These risks could be mitigated with better monitoring of swimming sites," she noted.
Dr. Mark Harper from University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, a co-author of the study, added, "Barriers to cold water swimming can be overcome, and our early research in non-pregnant populations suggests that the activity has a significantly positive effect on mental health."
Currently, designated bathing waters in the UK are monitored only during the summer months (May-September), but many sites do not meet the required standards, and conditions may be even worse at undesignated sites. The researchers are therefore urging the UK government, water companies, the Environment Agency, and international bodies to enhance the safety and accessibility of open water swimming.
Professor Harper emphasised the importance of supporting this activity, stating, "Our previous research has shown that women strongly perceive cold water swimming as beneficial to their health. Exercising in nature and within a community should be encouraged, yet it is not well supported."
One of the study's key recommendations is for the government to extend monitoring of water quality beyond the summer months, particularly during winter when heavy rainfall often leads to sewage overflow. "Globally, we must ensure that cold water swimming is both accessible and safe. It's time to make this increasingly popular and beneficial sport more secure and supported for everyone," Professor Harper added.
Professor Sasha Roseneil from the University of Sussex, another co-author, pointed out that cold water swimming has become a passion for many women in the UK, offering numerous well-being benefits. However, she stressed the need for the government and regulators to take the quality of rivers, lakes, and seas seriously to protect both current swimmers and the ecosystems of these natural resources for future generations.
The research team is continuing to explore the benefits and risks of cold water swimming, with an upcoming study led by Professor Jill Shawe of the University of Plymouth focusing on cold water swimming and pregnancy.
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