EP 215: How Ice Swimming And Cold Immersion Can Help You Take Control Of Your Destiny

Fenwick Ridley is the owner of H2oTrails where he helps people discover the thrill of outdoor swimming and other water based activities in a stunning Northumberland location, Sweethope Loughs.

He is also known as the  GB Ice Viking and represents Team GB as an Ice Swimmer, finishing 2nd in at 500m and 3rd for the 1km the World Championships in the 35-39 year old category. 

On this episode of Demystifying Mental Toughness, David talks to Team GB Ice Swimmer, and Owner of H2O Trails, Fenwick Ridley.  We chat about ice swimming and mental toughness, cold water immersion and it’s effects on the mind and body.  How cold water can have a positive impact on mental health and help you embrace the feelings of discomfort.

Feel free to tune in!

Key Learning Points:

• Mental Toughness comes from someone who has got very specific attributes including perseverance and a high level of focus.  As well as a balanced perception, understanding that it’s going to be okay and I’ve got the right tools with me to do whatever you want to do.
• Reading the body’s signals is vitally important when you are an ice swimmer. Understanding your hydration, fuel, sleep, stress and recovery.
• Cold water is great at tackling inflammation and improving mental health.
• Ice swimming can be very peaceful.
• It’s very easy to get in your own way, cold water can help you overcome your inner voice.
• Cold water helps you get comfortable being uncomfortable.

Connect with Fenwick Ridley

Fenwick Ridley – Instagram

H2O Trails Website

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Relevant Podcast Episodes

Ep214: Ellen McDermott – How To Create Helpful Eating Habits To Benefit Your Sport Performance

Ep213: Sandro Forte – How To Set Yourself Up For Success In 2024?

Ep210: Anna Parker-Naples – Why Breathwork is so Powerful

Ep185: Mark Bennett MBE: Commitment: Leisure Athletes vs Performance Athletes #BITESIZE

Ep140: Chris Cook – How to Improve Your Mental Strength: Secrets from an Olympian

Relevant Resources on Breathwork, Relaxation and Deliberate Cold Water Immersion

International Ice Swimming

Website: Dr Susanna Soeberg – The Soeberg Institute

Video: Professor Andrew Huberman and Dr Susanna Soeberg: How to Use Cold & Heat Exposure to Improve Your Health

Video: Novak Djokovic and Wim Hof discuss Cold Therapy and Breathing Exercises

Video: Fenwick Ridley | 5 Degrees and Below