Cold Water Swimming Club in Lake Superior
Swimming in cold water has it’s benefits, especially when it’s the beautiful Lake Superior.
You are probably asking yourself, “how cold is Lake Superior right now?”
As the 2024 Winter is approaching, it’s probably hovering around 45 degrees ish.
Don’t be alarmed, it’s the most asked question for anyone brave enough to go swimming in the big lake, especially in the winter.
In Marquette, MI, Lake Superior rules the shoreline and also is arguably one of the best places in the states to enjoy the benefits of cold water swimming.
Let’s look at all you should know about cold water swimming in Lake Superior in the winter (& other months).
- Increased Blood Circulation
- Enhanced Immunity
- Inflammation Reducer
- Improved Mood
- Enhanced Energy
- Improved Metabolic Rate
- Help health of Skin, Hair, and Nails
- Many More
How to Cold Water Swim Safely this year
Because safety is the highest priority when exposing yourself to the elements, let’s look at some practical cold water swimming tips.
Here are some things that can help with cold water therapy.
- Groups/Lifeguard – Join this group or bring someone to be your lifeguard. Strength in numbers is especially true during these moments
- Enter/Exit Plan – Depending on your location, it might be tricky to get in and out of the water. Protect yourself with a plan
- Cold Water Wetsuit – Not ready for full exposure? Start with a wetsuit. After try with gloves and booties. Read your body and it’s signals
- Start Slow – Cold Shock Response is real. The body is going to hyperventilate, the heart rate will increase, and blood pressure will rise. Control your body and continue breathing
- Breathing Technique – Nasal breathing is the optimal way to enhance your experience. Deep breaths through the nose and out of the mouth.
- Stay Sober – Refrain from pre dip alcohol consumption
Winter Experiences: 🧗♀️ Munising Ice Climbing at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Cold Water Swimming in Lake Superior Experience
If you are ready to join in on some Pure Michigan fun, send me a message so you don’t miss the swim!
We typically plan for sunrise swims but things can change depending on work/weather!
Cold Water Therapy FAQ
You might be asking yourself, “Am I really going to do this?”
Yes, follow this nut into the Lake and I promise you won’t regret it!
Here are some common cold water therapy questions you might be asking yourself now:
How Cold is Lake Superior right now?
Here you can find Lake Superiors current temperature
Although that 40 degrees is usually found at lower depths, the surface level temperatures of the Big Lake constantly change with wind and weather.
How Long should I stay in to get the most benefits of cold ?
Three to five minutes is a sweet spot for me but will vary depending on everyone’s cold water adaptation. Stay in as long as you safely can but are still comfortable enough.
What is the average Lake Superior water temperature?
Lake Superior’s average temperature is 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Although that 40 degrees is usually found at lower depths, the surface level temperatures of the Big Lake constantly change with wind and weather.
Is Lake Superior Warm enough to swim in?
Lake Superior is almost always warm enough to swim in. Yes it’s cold and it will vary from person to person, but you can always swim in the lake.
Where is the best place to cold water swim in Marquette?
McCarty’s Cove is the best place to cold water swim in Marquette because of it’s close proximity to things and stunning scenery.
It’s also perfect because it’s shallow and depending on wind direction, can shelter off any wind affecting Marquette’s water temperatures.
Can you swim in Lake Superior in the winter?
You can swim in Lake Superior in the Winter and all seasons!
Although it can be much trickier to enter the lake because of frozen shorelines, people swim in Lake Superior in the winter!
I'm shivering. How do I safely warm up after cold exposure?
The best way to warm yourself up after cold exposure is to breathe and completely dry yourself off.
The next step is to continue your controlled breathing with some calisthenics to increase blood flow throughout the body.
Jumping jacks, pushups, and body squats are all excellent options.
How do you get used to cold water swimming?
Cold adaptation takes time and practice.
By constantly immersing yourself into the practice you can become used to cold water swimming quicker than you think!
Marquette Michigan Cold Swimming Club
Want to take part in the Marquette Cold Swimming Club?
Come be apart of a new cold water swimming group in Marquette and challenge your mind, soul, and body
It’s this simple.
We meet at Lake Superior and go swimming to reap the positive benefits associated with Cold Water exposure.
Maybe some Lake Superior Photography will change your mind