What are the benefits of cold-water swimming?

We hear everywhere that cold exposure benefits the immune system and releases endorphins, leaving us in a wonderful mood.

That is all true, but for me its first benefit is training the will. Three times a week, whether I feel like it or not, I make the effort to go to the river, change, get in and swim.

It feels good, but you have to work towards that through regular practice. It may take several years before every sensation is pleasant. Some people feel that way from the start; others need longer. But when it happens, you think: this is perfect — I am swimming in icy water, feeling good and enjoying it.

Here is what it looked like at U Žida in Frýdek-Místek on 5 March 2022.