A qualitative study: has sea swimming increased adults’ perceived physical and mental health benefits during COVID 19 lockdown?
Authors
Ivory, Niamh
Issue Date
2022
Degree
BA (Hons) in Psychology
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights holder
Rights
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Abstract
A qualitative study was used to investigate an increase in the perceived mental and physical health benefits of sea swimming in adults during the COVID-19 lockdown. Semi-structured interviews were conducted on 5 sea swimmers and their experiences were analysed using Braun and Clarke’s (2019) thematic analysis (N=5). Ages ranged from 21 to 66 with a mean age of 46.6. Open-ended questions were used to ensure a detailed personal account of each participant was captured. Results indicate a positive mental and psychosocial aspect of sea swimming however limited findings were recorded for physical benefits from this cohort. One weakness to be considered is all participants were female. For future research, to ensure gender balance, a more equal inclusion of all sexes to be considered. Limitations of the study clearly emphasise the need to explore wider community and social support services that participants might be using to verify sea swimming results.