I enjoy following the stories of Tessie Lijbaart on Instagram , who regularly swims in cold water. For this blog post I asked Tessie a few questions about her cold hobby with lifeguard class near me.



Tessie feels most alive when she is outside. She has walked a Camino three times, but is looking for itadventure with American lifeguard Association Vienna.

I often talk about 'adventurous life'. Many people immediately think of climbing high mountains, traveling the world or crossing an ocean in a kayak. I see that differently. This is my answer..

also closer to home. She started swimming in cold water last November, ignited by her sister and brother-in-law. Though she found that first time swimming in cold water grueling, felt so alive too! She built it up and now swims in the sea every week.

What does swimming in cold water bring Tessie?

Tessie really feels alive and alive when swimming in cold water. Swimming is her me-time by the sea. It calms her down, in mind and body. Physically and mentally she can deal with the cold better and she is much less cold in winter than before. She also sleeps better and has been less sick since she started swimming in cold water than in previous years with American lifeguard Va.



Can anyone swim in cold water?

According to Tessie, if you are physically healthy and read up before you start swimming in cold water, anyone can swim in cold water. It is important that you approach it safely and build up slowly. Take small steps: first go into the water only up to your ankle and build it up slowly. It's not about staying in the water for as long as possible.

Doesn't it feel good to be in the water? Listen to your body and get out of the cold water. Do you think it's scary? Then stop and build it up more slowly. Calm breathing is important for safe swimming in cold water. If you catch your breath or hyperventilate with panic when you are in the water, the chance of cramping and accidents is much higher. Tessie also recommends that you don't go deeper than where your feet can reach the ground.

For many people, swimming in cold water is way out of the comfort zone. Maybe being in your bikini in the winter alone is far enough out of your comfort zone. But that doesn't mean you should let that stop you. Tessie and I believe that it is good to step out of that comfort zone! That pride you feel when you've done it, feels great. Celebrate your success and enjoy (just like Tessie) the 'inner flame that burns'.

Tessie's tips for cold water swimming

I asked Tessie if she had any tips for those who want to swim in cold water. In addition to building up slowly and tackling it safely, she gave the following tips:

  • Do you find it exciting to go alone? You will find all over The Netherlands
  • On this page you will find my articles about micro-adventure, hiking and camping in the Netherlands. Scroll through the blogs for inspiration or use the search function if you're looking for information on a specific topic.
  • more and more swimming groups that you can join.
  • Download the Wim Hoff app to keep track of your cold water showers and breathing exercises.
  • Read Wim Hoff's book: a sober and beautiful story.
  • Breath. It doesn't matter how exactly, but keep breathing before and while swimming.
  • It helps to scream when you feel that urge.