One of the best things about living on the Northern Beaches is the easy access to the ocean. Think balmy summer days swimming in the waves and the sun to naturally dry you off.

Swimming outdoors in winter however, is not traditionally something that springs to mind as a must-do.

Yet, thousands of us take to the cooler sea water each week.  And the plethora of outdoor swim clubs - Warriewood Stingrays, Newport Prawns, Dee Why Ice Picks, Freshwater’s Frigid Frogs, Manly’s Bold and the Beautiful and many more – is evidence that locally this teeth-chattering activity is growing in popularity.

Why is winter swimming do good?

Seems there might well be method in the madness. 

• It’s not new - Ancient Greeks used cold water immersion to beat fevers, British doctors were prescribing patients winter trips to the seaside back in the 1800s, and more recently, Dutchman Wim Hof popularised the health benefits of ice water baths.
• The science is in - Researchers from Cambridge University discovered it improves long-term immunity and protects our brains from degenerative diseases like dementia.
• Any exercise is healthy – Swimming burns calories and helps circulation, cold or not. 
• Mental Health - The natural high that comes with movement increases well-being and reduces stress; it’s too cold to think about your woes!

Tips to getting started 

Knowing winter swimming is good for you, and actually overcoming the thought of that first heart-pumping submersion, can be tricky.  So avoid the excuses and be prepared. 

• Gear up – Wetsuits, gloves and even neoprene booties help make the plunge bearable.  Swim caps keep hair out of your eyes and double up as head warmers
• Buoyancy – Use flippers for power and to keep you moving in the right direction
• Eyes and ears – Goggles help protect your eyes from salty water and make it easier to spot marine life. Ear plugs, nose pegs and snorkels for breathing are also an option
• Think about the after – Pack cosy loose clothing, hot drinks, a bottle of warm water to clean off and a bag for wet swimmers; being organised is well worth the effort
• Motivation - Join a local outdoor swim club, engage a coach or find a charity offering learn-to-swim programs; accountability is a great way to make intentions reality

So snuggle up, strip off and get ready: it’s time to take the plunge and embrace this winter’s hottest ticket.