Cold exposure and ice swimming safely
Ice swimming (avantouinti) and cold showers are popular in Finland, and many people find them refreshing and say they feel better. The research evidence on recovery benefits is mixed, so the most important thing is to do it safely and listen to your body.
You will need
- An ice swimming spot that is supervised or where others are present
- Swim shoes and a hat
- Warm clothes and a towel
- A friend to come with you
Steps
Check your health
Cold quickly raises your blood pressure and heart rate. If you have a heart or vascular condition, heart rhythm disturbances or high blood pressure, talk to your doctor before you start.
Start with the shower
Go ice swimming with company
Get in calmly
Keep the exposure short
Warm up straight away
Time it around training
Know the danger signs
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