In southeast Texas, we know all too well how crazy and ever changing the weather is in this area. There are many days during the winter where the weather is warm enough to make you consider going for a swim. When the weather gets cooler though, most of us probably shy away from diving in. While it seems a little crazy, cold water swimming has actually becoming more popular over the last several years. Studies have shown, surprisingly enough, that there are actually benefits to swimming in the cooler temperatures. So next time the weather cools down, maybe reconsider going for a quick dip in the pool! We’re sharing few of those cold water swimming benefits below!
Boosts Immune System
The way that cold water affects our immune systems has been studied extensively. Because the body is being forced to react to the changing conditions, swimming in cold water has been known to boost white blood cell count. Over time, your body will naturally get better at activating its defenses, boosting your immune system.
Gives You a Natural High
Swimming in cold water actually activates endorphins, which increases your levels of dopamine and serotonin. Additionally, swimming is a form of exercise and has been proven to help depression. Swimming in cold water brings us closer to the pain barrier. Endorphins are released when we’re in , or close to, pain to help us feel better! Essentially, the adrenaline from swimming in cold water can improve our overall mood!
Improves Your Circulation
Cold water swimming can actually improve your circulation. Swimming in colder water can flush your veins, arteries, and capillaries, which causes the blood in your deeper tissues to circulate faster. This helps your body maintain it’s ideal body temperature. After repeated exposure to this cold water, your body will naturally adapt to the cold as well.
Reduces Stress
There have been a number of studies done on cold water swimming and stress reduction and they’ve consistently shown that swimming in cold water, over a period of time, can actually reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Swimming in cold water places stress on your body in both a physical and mental way, causing it to have to adapt to the new change. Cold water swimming helps your body adapt to different types of stress, and as time goes on, your body will eventually learn to become more calm and more relaxed under these types of situations.
Burns Calories
When swimming in cooler temperatures, your heart has to pump faster, and your body has to work harder in order to keep your body warm. Because the cold water decreases your body temperature in a drastic way, and because swimming is a form of exercise, your body has to more quickly jump into action. Overall, because of these things, more calories are burned when swimming in cold water than when swimming in warmer temperatures.
At Crocodile Pools, we love helping our clients keep their pools clean all year round. If you’re ready to take the next step in hiring a professional to help you care for your pool, contact us today! You’ve got nothing to lose and a whole lot to gain, including a beautiful pool all year round! Check out our SERVICES and CONTACT US for a FREE consultation to ensure your in-ground pool stays safe and clean. Make sure to follow us on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, and YOUTUBE for helpful pool tips, tricks, and deals throughout the season!