Does my age affect how I acclimatise to cold water?

Dr Hussain Al-Zubaidi answers this reader question about cold-water swimming

“As a 70-year-old, I am aware that it takes me longer to acclimatise to the colder temperatures. Is this because I am swimming a lot slower? I am aware many different and individual factors than come into play.”

Dr Hussain Al-Zubaidi says: This is a common experience among older swimmers and while slower swimming does reduce heat generation, age related changes play a big role too. As we get older, we lose heat more quickly, shiver less effectively, and don’t warm up as easily. So yes, it’s harder to acclimatise, not just because of pace, but because the body’s natural thermoregulation becomes less efficient.

To keep you warmer, consider adding an extra thermal cap to your swim cap, or using neoprene gloves and booties. Eating something beforehand helps give your body some energy for heat production. After you get out the water do some gentle movement like walking, which will help you warm up quicker than if you were standing still and have that well deserved cuppa!