What does Winter Swimming Have to do with Balneotherapy?

Abstract

Winter swimming is a complex procedure that simultaneously includes the effects of cold, water itself, physical activity, and the climate factor. All these elements are used in thermal medicine in a milder form. They also have a lot in common with Kneipp hardening therapy. In winter swimming, belonging to extreme sports, extremely strong stimuli act simultaneously. Winter swimming positively affects the cardiorespiratory system, complete blood count, musculoskeletal system, endocrine system, immune system, the skin, metabolic processes, and the mental sphere. Empirically, many beneficial effects of winter swimming have been discovered, but there is very little scientific research showing this procedure’s mechanisms of action. Hence, they are often based on hypotheses. The mechanisms of action of winter swimming on complete blood count and the organism’s oxidative processes are best explained. However, the explanation of the mechanisms of action is mostly based on research conducted in cryotherapy. To obtain beneficial health effects, it is necessary to prepare properly for winter swimming and comply with the entire process’s rules, from preparation, through the treatment itself, to behavior after the procedure. In recent years, handbooks and guides have appeared in Poland that contain practical tips on the winter swimming procedure.