New study explores why open water swimming feels so powerful for midlife women

A team of UK researchers has published a new study examining how middle-aged, middle-class British women describe the effects of regular open water swimming on their wellbeing, including its impact on menopause symptoms and mental health.

The University of East London research uses in-depth interviews to understand women’s own accounts of swimming in outdoor water and how they feel it supports their lives.

The study looks at the patterns that emerged when women talked about what open water swimming meant to them.

Across the interviews, four themes appeared consistently.

Although menopause was never introduced by the researchers, several participants volunteered that cold water and the routine of swimming helped them feel calmer, more emotionally balanced and more in control during a major life transition.

Women felt it supported their mental wellbeing, with many describing a clear “reset” effect, a lift in mood, more energy and an increased sense of what their bodies could do, all expressed in their own terms.

They also spoke about health, strength and resilience.

Participants said the experience of swimming outdoors helped them feel more capable and better able to deal with difficult moments, including bereavement, illness and daily stress.

Finally, Interviewees emphasised the community around the lake and said that the confidence and clarity they gained often carried over into work, relationships and everyday decision-making.

This is the first qualitative study to examine open water swimming through “flourishing” a recognised psychological framework, and that participants’ accounts aligned closely with its components.

Mr James Beale is lead author and Programme Leader for the MSc Applied Sport and Exercise Sciences at the University of East London.

He said: “We are seeing a major shift in women taking up open water swimming, and many are now speaking openly about how it connects to menopause.

“Until now, this discussion has been largely anecdotal.

“Our study shows that women repeatedly link outdoor swimming with emotional steadiness, confidence and coping during this stage of life.

“That points to an emerging area of women’s health that deserves greater attention.”