The Influence of Winter Swimming on Blood Pressure in Middle-Aged Women

Abstract

Introduction: For many years, winter baths have attracted an increasing number of participants. The results of various research indicate the increase of immunity and enhancement of anti-oxidative response in winter swimmers. The relationship between winter bathing and blood pressure variation is not thoroughly explored. Aim: The aim of the study was the evaluation of blood pressure variation in middle-aged women attending regularly in winter swimming. Material and Methods: The study was conducted in a group of twenty five healthy women in age range 17-63 years (mean 39.9 years), who regularly participated in lake swims between October and April. The first examination was taken in December 2018, the second one in April 2019. Duration of each immersion in the water was 4 minutes, water temperature was below 4°C. Blood pressure was measured before the immersion and immediately after getting out of the water. Body temperature was assessed before and after the swim. Control group consisted of 25 women of similar age who never practiced winter swimming. Results: In intervention group systolic and diastolic blood pressure increased essentially after each immersion in cold water. Decrease of systolic and diastolic blood pressure was observed on spring, but these changes were not significant. Decrease of systolic blood pressure was noted in control group in April Conclusions: In intervention group no significant influence of winter swimming on blood pressure was discovered. Further studies, considering greater number of morphological and physiological variables are needed to confirm healthy impact of winter swimming on cardio-vascular system.