Advocates of cold-water swimming swear by its health benefits – and the opinion of local doctors seem to back up the fans.
The Tribune de Genève asked several specialists in Geneva ahead of the highly popular Christmas Cup where up to 4,000 will take a dip in the Lake. This year it’ll be on the 16th and 17th December.
Dr Pierre Louge, a hyperbaric specialist, at the University Hospital of Geneva, says the sudden change in temperature puts a strain on the heart making it work harder.
But the pain seems to dissipate after a minute. He says that’s down to the release of endorphins, adrenaline and serotonin – all feel good hormones, designed to lower the discomfort.
Other specialists suggest cold water swimming can help with weight loss and blood pressure.
But anyone with heart problems should ask their doctor first about the benefits.
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