The BBC's Freeze the Fear with Wim Hof sees a group of celebrities push themselves to the limit as they take on shivering temperatures. In the latest episode tonight (May 3), the celebs take on their most daunting and coldest challenge so far, in the form of the forbidding Ice Ladder.
Wim Hof has built up a strong cult following for both himself and his much-vaunted Wim Hof Method, for which he claims a range of health benefits. The method makes use of cold therapy, meditation and breathing techniques.
Although the full Wim Hof Method isn’t for everyone, the success of his TV show has left a lot of people wondering about the potential health benefits - and risks - of cold water swimming. But can it be done safely?
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Is cold water swimming safe?
Cold water swimming can be done safely, but there are a number of potential risks involved - so it’s important to be aware of them before you take the plunge. Advocates of cold water swimming say it can have various benefits for both your physical and mental health.
Netdoctor points out that some cold water swimmers can get in trouble when they experience cold shock. It can result in breathing problems and cause panic, so it’s wise to ease your way gradually into cold water rather than simply plunging in.
Another common problem is cold incapacitation, when swimmers find that their muscles lose power and it becomes harder to swim across even short distances. This can increase the risk of drowning.
There’s also hypothermia, when the body's temperature falls below 35C. Hypothermia can be a risk of cold water swimming, particularly during the winter months, though it does generally take longer to set in than cold shock and incapacitation.
In addition, there are other health problems that may be caused or exacerbated by cold water swimming. These can include cramp and asthma - so, the Outdoor Swimming Society says, asthmatics need to be aware of the latter risk before taking up the pursuit.
There are things you can do to reduce the risks involved in cold water swimming, according to Practical Boat Owner. Research your chosen location carefully beforehand and ensure that you have warm clothing at hand when you leave the water.
Also, wearing the right gear can help to protect you against the risks of cold water swimming. A winter wetsuit, swimming cap, gloves and boots can help to fend off the cold while you're in the water and keep your extremities warm.
What are the benefits of cold water swimming?
IPRS Health says that cold water swimming can offer various potential health benefits. In terms of physical health, it can help to improve circulation, strengthen your immune system and burn calories.
Your mental health could benefit from taking up cold water swimming as well. As well as being a good way to socialise and meet new people, it could also help to reduce your overall stress levels.
The BBC says in its guide to the programme: "It is thought that cold water immersion can stimulate blood flow. It is believed that when the body is immersed in cold water, the blood rushes to surround the vital organs including the brain.
"Your heart then is forced to pump more efficiently, pushing blood through all your vessels and supplying every part of your body with the oxygen and nutrients it needs. If this is done on a routine basis, it can help promote healthy blood circulation and ultimately, a healthy body."
And it cautions: "You should extensively research cold water methods and seek advice from your doctor before participating. Some underlying health conditions could cause you to have adverse reactions to cold water immersion and shock to the body."
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