Winter swimming
Winter swimming is more than just immersing yourself in cold water—it’s a full-body and mind awakening.
The effects of cold water go deeper than the surface: it strengthens the immune system, boosts circulation, and clears the mind. When you combine swimming with light warm-up exercises or a jog, you simultaneously enhance muscle fitness and reap the benefits of cold exposure.
- Learn a safe and enjoyable approach to winter swimming
- Enjoy the health benefits of cold water
- Start by simply immersing yourself—progress at your own pace
Who is winter swimming suitable for?
Winter swimming is suitable for almost all healthy adults and is an enjoyable hobby. You don’t need a special tolerance for cold—it develops as you continue the activity. Whether you’re a jogger, someone recovering from daily stress, or simply curious to try something new, winter swimming offers a natural way to strengthen both body and mind.
How to start winter swimming?
Begin slowly: at first, just take a quick dip. By progressing in small steps, your body will adapt to the cold. You can gradually extend your swimming time in increments of about 15 seconds, up to approximately 2.5 minutes.
Staying in the water longer than this is not recommended—especially when alone. It’s more important that winter swimming is regular: 2-3 times a week is sufficient to bring tangible benefits.
Tips for a safe and pleasant experience
- Warm up before swimming. Good methods include walking, Nordic walking, or jogging. Light strength exercises are also excellent, especially when done on a trail.
- Always swim parallel to the shore and in water depths where you can stand. Ice-cold water can numb you quickly. Always be cautious.
- Avoid submerging your head. Cold water may cause headaches and excessively lower your body temperature. Wearing a hat during swimming is advisable.
- Footwear and gloves? It’s a matter of comfort! Your hands and feet will surprisingly quickly adapt to the cold.
Where can you practice winter swimming?
The best place to start winter swimming is a gently sloping, sandy-bottomed beach. However, many people end up swimming in a hole cut into the ice near a pier, kept open with water circulation. For example, at Klobben in Espoo Soukka, there’s a pier designed for winter swimming with heated steps—an excellent place to try the activity safely and comfortably.
Book your own lesson
Book a private session or gather your own small group and start your journey toward confident and relaxed swimming skills.
Prices from €25 / person / hour.