National World investigated the surge in wild swimming in the UK during lockdown:
Some venture out into lakes, seas and ponds alone, or others do it as part of a club or local community, listing various reasons why they enjoy plunging into open water come rain or shine – or even snow.
A trends report published by Outdoor Swimmer in January of this year revealed that 45 per cent of swimmers increased how much they swam outside in 2020, estimating that participation in outdoor swimming in the UK has increased by between 1.5 and 3 times since 2019.
The closing of indoor pools was the likely reason but there are lots of added benefits to outdoor swimming including:
- Reductions in muscle swelling and inflammation
- Better sleep
- Reduced stress
- Boosted metabolism
- Improves your circulation
Not for me but if you want to try it, be safe!