Wild swimming—taking a dip in lakes, rivers, or the ocean—has long been praised for its invigorating effects, but new research spanning 19 countries confirms that it offers more than just a refreshing escape.
This BlueHealth study of 1,200 outdoor swimmers found that plunging into natural waters leads to significantly higher levels of well-being compared to swimming in open-air pools. While both forms of outdoor swimming improve mood and reduce stress, wild swimming delivers a unique psychological boost, thanks to the freedom and challenge of the open water.
The study, led by Wencke Groeneweld and Morris Krainz, is grounded in self-determination theory, which suggests that the key lies in autonomy and competence. Open-water swimmers reported feeling a greater sense of independence and mastery over their environment—two factors strongly linked to well-being. Interestingly, the sense of social connection (or “relatedness”) didn’t play as big a role, implying that wild swimming’s benefits stem more from personal achievement than from community bonding.
However, the research also revealed a surprising nuance: more skilled swimmers, drawn to adventurous and riskier locations, sometimes reported higher anxiety levels. This suggests that while wild swimming can be deeply rewarding, it may also push individuals into situations that challenge their comfort zones. Ensuring safe access to high-quality open-water locations could help more people enjoy the benefits while minimizing potential risks.
As outdoor swimming continues to gain popularity, this study reinforces the case for embracing wild waters—not just for physical fitness, but for mental well-being—and protecting them as a valuable public health resource.
