Cold Water Swimming Guidance | Droitwich Lido

After the success of last year’s cold water swimming at Droitwich Spa Lido, we have been able to do another Winter season!

Cold water swimming, also known as open water swimming, has been recognised to have many mental & physical benefits, & is becoming increasingly popular. These benefits include relieving & building a greater tolerance against stress, physical benefits that are commonly linked to swimming in general & has even been identified to be an amazing activity to help relieve the symptoms linked to menopause.

Also with our lido pool being salt water, you’re skin will feel better due to the natural moisturiser & exfoliation properties of salt. saltwater also contains bromide, which is a mineral known for its soothing properties, capable of easing everyday aches and pains

Here’s what you need to know, before taking a dip in the lido’s cold water or going for a bracing outdoor swim:

1. Acclimatise

   We understand the temptation to jump in, but during the colder months we recommend taking your time to acclimatise. A lot of our first timers will enter through the sloped beach entry making sure wet their face and the back of their neck before fully submerge themselves in the water.

2. Wear the correct swim kit

   Wearing the right swim clothing can protect against the temperature & will stop your fingers/toes from feeling numb. You also lose 10% of your body heat through your head, so it may seem silly to wear a hat in water, it does help. Here’s your kit checklist (make sure to have as many of these things as possible):

   • Swimming trunks or costume

   • Wetsuit (not required but we’d recommend getting one)

   • Goggles

   • Silicone hat

   • Neoprene gloves &/or woolly gloves

   • Neoprene booties

   • Neoprene hat &/or woolly hat

   • Changing robe/Towel

   • Flip flops or Crocs

   • Extra layers & warm clothes to get changed into

3. Know Your Limits

   We know our sessions are an hour long, but we don’t expect many to swim more than 30 minutes. By starting cold water swimming just after the summer season has ended, you can build up your tolerance over the slightly warmer months so that when winter really hits, your body is ready. If you are unsure about cold water swimming due to a medical condition, we recommend consulting your GP/doctor.

4. Warm up slowly & grab a hot drink

   You don’t want to have a hot shower. Hot water will warm your outer body but your core will feel much colder and it can be dangerous. Instead, make sure you dry off & get changed immediately after getting out of the water, have plenty of warm clothes, wrap up well and have a hot drink.

We recommend that everyone tries cold water swimming, no matter what your age & ability! The sense of accomplishment after each swim is immense & will leave you wanting to give it another go.