Why you should go wild swimming... in the winter

If you have fallen in love with wild swimming in crystal clear lakes and picturesque waterfalls over the summer months then how about learning to swim outdoors right through the winter too?

Here are five reasons why you should:

1) The 'buzz'

If you love the feeling of tingly skin and a refreshed mind that you get after a dip on a hot day, then magnify that by ten and you are getting close to the buzz you get from wild swimming in the winter. The endorphin kick of entering the cold water followed by the flood of serotonin and dopamine you get from the sense of achievement and overcoming a challenge is the best natural high you are every likely to find!

2) The peace and quiet

All of the popular swim spots that get over-crowded in the summer months will be yours and yours alone in the winter. You are pretty much guaranteed not to see anyone else and have the whole spot to yourself to enjoy the stunning views and tranquil waters.

3) The vitamin D

Ok so you might not get a sun-drenched swim like you do during the summer months, but just getting outside into the fresh air during the winter months can do wonders for your physical and mental health. Even small amounts of wintry sunshine feel like balm for the soul when you are in the cold water and can be an instant mood lifter.

4) The company

Finding like-minded souls who enjoy cold water swimming all year round is a wonderful way to forge deep new friendships. There is nothing like overcoming a challenge together, and when your brain is screaming "no, don't do it!", having people you know and trust by your side can help you achieve things you never thought were possible. If they happen to be expert cake bakers then even better!

5) The sense of achievement

Setting yourself a new goal is a great way to stay motivated and focused and what better time to start than with the 'new term' in September. Whether you have kids or not, there is something about the end of the summer that reminds the inner child in us all of the new pencil cases and shiny new shoes and that time when we put our minds and body back to work. What could be better than focusing on getting to a Winter Solstice swim in December equipped with all the skills and techniques you need to be a winter wild swimmer?