Exploring the use of outdoor swimming as a potential wellbeing intervention

Abstract

Section A
Background: Outdoor swimming has potential to improve wellbeing. A randomised control trial is currently investigating this relationship, but qualitative findings available in this area require in-depth review.
Aims: This review firstly aimed to explore what qualitative findings suggest about the relationship between outdoor swimming and wellbeing. Secondly the review aimed to explore what factors appear to influence individuals’ engagement in outdoor swimming.
Method: A systematic literature search of four databases (Medline, PsychInfo, Pubmed and Social Discus) conducted on 25th July 2025 identified 18 relevant studies. Thematic synthesis was then conducted.
Findings: Seven analytical themes were developed. Three themes related to the first research question; the facilitation of positive experiences, the relief from distress and building resilience. Remaining themes related to the second research question; you might need a push, getting hooked, feeling safe and location, location, location.
Implications: Findings of this review highlight practical and psychological factors that may influence individuals’ engagement in outdoor swimming. To supplement ongoing research into the effect of outdoor swimming on wellbeing, further research should explore the barriers and facilitators of engagement in outdoor swimming.

Section B
Background: Outdoor Swimming (OS) is potentially beneficial for mental health. It is important to identify and address barriers that may prevent the activity being accessible for the whole population.
Aims/Method: A cross-sectional survey based on the theory of planned behaviour was used to identify beliefs associated with individuals’ intention to engage in OS as a leisure activity (model 1) and as a group intervention for low mood (model 2). Two hundred and fifty-six participants from the general population completed the survey for model 1, 160 of whom also completed the model 2 survey. Results were analysed using path analysis (for quantitative models) and content analysis (for qualitative responses).
Findings: In both models, respondents who believed OS to be unsafe indicated lower intention to engage in OS. Respondents who believed people of their ethnicity and age also engage in OS and those who feel comfortable in swimwear indicated higher intention in both models. Positive beliefs about the benefits of joining a mental health group were significantly associated with positive attitudes towards OS as a mental health intervention.
Implications: Future research investigating the effects of OS on mental health should consider the identified factors when designing interventions and during recruitment to maximise accessibility.

Date of Award	2026
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Canterbury Christ Church University