Is swimming in winter healthy? At first glance, the deserted beaches might suggest otherwise. However, some swimmers in Nice are convinced of the opposite. For them, everything’s just fine!
Brrr…!!! Swimming in the Mediterranean in the middle of winter, what a strange idea! And yet it exists. A handful of steadfast swimmers resist the cool breeze that sweeps across the Promenade des Anglais. Small indeed, because for January, the temperatures are mild and the sun makes its way through.
The city of Nice can be proud of its climate. But for us Niçois, going for a dip in the salty water during this period seems hard to imagine. Few of us dare to take the plunge. As proof, there are few people walking around with bare backs, legs, and feet. Each day, they number about ten, twenty at most, predominantly older individuals. Alone or in groups, they dive in.
Unanimously, they proclaim the benefits of winter bathing. This is the case for Francis, a 73-year-old retiree and former hospital worker: “It’s good for your health, especially against varicose veins. After a swim in the water, I feel much better.” Alain Mangot, a general practitioner to the east of Nice, confirms it. According to him, the cold water acts on varicose veins. It is also effective against heavy legs because the cold makes the blood circulate faster than usual.
But this seemingly bizarre activity continues to make many happy. Eugene, a good friend of Francis, also has something to say: “Since I retired in 1991, there hasn’t been a day when I don’t come out to swim a few laps. Except, of course, when it rains and when the wind is strong. That’s our only obstacle. Otherwise, the water is really excellent once you’re inside.”
From an expert’s word – And being there daily, Charlie knows what he’s talking about. For twenty years, this man has been retired, and for twenty years, he has been swimming in the “winter” waters. Since his first cold bath, this former financial advisor has never felt better. The reason: a bit of swimming each day. “In winter, 10 to 15 minutes of swimming is enough for me. Once inside, it’s not so cold. It feels good. Really good! It’s when getting out that I get goosebumps, but this discomfort is only temporary.” There’s a saying that nothing comes for free. And Charlie is convinced: his dose of swimming is THE secret to staying fit.
However, caution is still advised! Some doctors are totally opposed to this activity. This is the case with Dr. Benizri Albert, a general practitioner: “It’s risky, especially for older people. You should always seek the advice of your physician before taking such an initiative.”
Dr. Bernard Alain’s opinion is more nuanced. According to him, a person is in danger if they have cardiovascular problems. “In this case, it’s best to avoid attempting this adventure. Otherwise, there’s nothing to forbid it as long as you enjoy it.”
And Charlie enjoys it immensely during his swims. He doesn’t just limit himself to a refreshing dip. This stock market enthusiast follows a precise ritual. With pride, he lists each step of one of his mornings spent at the beach: Enter the water gradually and then swim within his personal limits. After getting out, dry off and dress to avoid catching cold. “The most important thing afterwards is to do stretches for about ten minutes. Abs, push-ups… to each their own. The exercise shouldn’t stop there. Ideally, one should walk briskly for twenty minutes.”
After the effort, the reward: The man explains that he finishes his morning by drinking a coffee and flipping through his newspaper. “My wife thinks I’m a bit crazy but one thing is for sure: since I started swimming in winter, I’ve never fallen ill. Not even once! It definitely works for me. I feel in great shape. Even my children have noticed.” Not only good for his breathing, this practice also makes him want to eat well and helps him sleep well at night.
So, except where contraindicated, respondents are welcome. – Barbara D
