Always check with your GP before swimming in cold water if you have any pre-existing medical conditions that might be affected by exposure to cold water. To acclimatise, it’s best to work with the natural cooling of open water across the autumn and winter, starting in September. Regular dipping will reduce cold shock response and build cold water tolerance. Cold-water tolerance is individual and can change day-to-day depending on your general wellbeing. Don’t be tempted to stay in the water for as long as others; know what’s comfortable for you and stick to it.
