Into the Cold

C1 Advanced · Open Cloze · Cambridge Ready original exercise

For questions 1–8, read the text below and think of the word which best fits each gap. Use only one word in each gap. There is an example at the beginning.

There was a time when anyone seen swimming in a lake in January would have been regarded (0) ___ slightly eccentric. Today, cold-water swimming has a devoted following, and its fans speak of it (1) ___ glowing terms. It lifts their mood, they say, sharpens the mind and helps them sleep, (2) ___ name but a few of its supposed benefits. Scientists, for (3) ___ part, are more cautious. Much of the evidence comes from small studies, and it is difficult to separate the effect of the cold water itself (4) ___ that of the fresh air, exercise and company that come with it. What is not in dispute is that plunging into icy water is (5) ___ no means without risk: the body's first reaction is to gasp, and swimmers can tire far more quickly than they expect. Experienced swimmers therefore urge newcomers to build up gradually and never to swim on (6) ___ own. For many devotees, however, the health claims are almost beside the (7) ___ . What keeps them coming back is the company, and the quiet satisfaction of having done something difficult before most people have even got (8) ___ of bed.

Into the Cold

Available as a free printable PDF worksheet with an optional answer key.

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