When the temperature drops and snowflakes begin to fall, many assume that swimming is only for the warm months. However, the reality is that winter is a fantastic time to keep splashing and improve swimming skills. In fact, indoor pools provide the perfect environment to stay active, practice water safety, and have fun during winter. Today, let’s debunk some common myths about winter swimming and show why swimming in the colder months is a fantastic option.
Myth #1: Swimming in Winter Makes You More Likely to Get Sick
Fact: Cold weather itself does not cause illness. You’re no more likely to catch a cold or flu from winter swimming than from any other winter activity indoors. In fact, research shows that consistent exercise like swimming can actually boost your immune system and help your body fight off infections more effectively. Heated indoor pools provide a warm, comfortable environment where kids and adults can stay active and avoid the common “couch hibernation” that winter can bring.
Myth #2: The Pool Water Is Too Cold in Winter
Fact: At Swim Fins all our pools are warm and are run between 84-86 degrees Fahrenheit. Not only does this make the water enjoyable, but it also keeps muscles warm and flexible, reducing the risk of injuries. As soon as swimmers jump in, they’ll feel the inviting warmth of the pool even if there’s snow on the ground outside. And don’t worry about the air either; indoor pools typically control the humidity and air temperature for an overall cozy experience.
Myth #3: Kids Shouldn’t Swim in Winter
Fact: While some parents worry about the cooler weather, winter is actually a great time for children to keep up with their swimming. Kids who swim year-round retain their skills and make steady progress, which is especially helpful when summer comes around again. Rather than taking a break, which can lead to skill regression, winter swimming helps children maintain their confidence and continue developing essential swimming abilities that could one day save their lives.
Myth #4: It’s Hard to Get Kids Motivated to Swim in Cold Weather
Fact: Kids can be surprisingly excited about swimming year-round especially when it’s a fun activity that breaks the winter routine. Keeping kids active in a warm pool provides a perfect outlet for all that pent-up energy that comes with cold weather. You can even make winter swimming a family event with different skill-level classes to keep everyone moving and engaged, no matter the season.
Myth #5: Winter Isn’t the Right Time to Start Learning to Swim
Fact: Anytime is the right time to start learning to swim! In fact, winter swimming offers a quieter, more focused environment for those just beginning to learn. With smaller class sizes and a more relaxed atmosphere, winter provides an ideal opportunity for students to build their skills without the busyness that often comes with summer. When spring and summer come around, these swimmers are already prepared and confident in the water.
Myth #6: Taking a Winter Break Won’t Impact My Child’s Progress
Fact: Just like any sport, consistency is key to progress in swimming. While taking a break may seem harmless, missing a few months of lessons can actually set kids back and make them feel less confident when they return. Regular swimming helps build and retain muscle memory, which is critical for learning strokes, improving breathing techniques, and developing water safety skills. By keeping up with lessons over the winter, children stay on track to meet their swimming goals without having to relearn skills.
Myth #7: Swimming Only Builds Physical Skills, So It’s Fine to Skip in Winter
Fact: Swimming is not only great for physical health it also offers incredible mental and emotional benefits. Swimming helps reduce stress, boosts mood, and promotes focus. For children, in particular, swimming can offer a sense of accomplishment and an outlet for any stress or restlessness that builds up in the colder months. The warm water, focused lessons, and fun social environment create a unique blend of physical and mental wellness, which is essential year-round.
Myth #8: Winter Swimming Isn’t Necessary for Water Safety
Fact: Water safety is a year-round concern, and swimming regularly is one of the best ways to ensure children are prepared for any situation. Consistent swim lessons reinforce safety skills such as floating, treading water, and breathing techniques essential skills that could be lifesaving. Water safety doesn’t have an “off-season,” and regular lessons, even in winter, ensure that children retain these critical abilities.
Benefits of Swimming in Winter
Alongside busting these myths, winter swimming has its own unique set of benefits:
Builds Immunity: Staying active during the winter keeps the immune system strong.
Improves Focus and Discipline: Regular lessons help children stay in a structured routine, which translates into better focus and self-discipline.
Enhances Mood and Energy Levels: Exercise, like swimming, releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters.
Dive In This Winter with Swim Fins!
Don’t let these winter swimming myths hold you back! Now is a perfect time to dive in and stay active, safe, and healthy. We currently have lessons year round at our pools in Richmond, Surrey, White Rock, Langley, Cloverdale, and Abbotsford. For more information on our programs, how to register, and much more, head over to our website! Come swim with Swim Fins: https://www.swimfins.ca/register