The Princess of Wales, who is recovering from cancer treatment, has a number of hobbies and interests that she is likely to have been enjoying over the summer months.

Kate Middleton has surprised fans and her husband Prince William with her admission of a peculiar hobby that drives him to call her "crazy".

Following the news of her cancer diagnosis, light exercise is commonly recommended for recovery, and for the sporty Royal, who played hockey and tennis at Marlborough College, this couldn't be truer.

In a candid conversation with Mike Tindall for his podcast 'The Good, The Bad And The Rugby' in 2023, Kate enthused about her passion for physical activity, reports OK!

"I really, genuinely, love all sports. I can always remember being physical, using our bodies, whether it's walking, climbing the Lake District, in Scotland [or] swimming from a young age," Kate explained. "[My parents] always encouraged us to be physically active and sporty and they always encouraged us into doing team sports and trying things."

But what truly raises eyebrows is the Princess of Wales' revelation about her fondness for an extreme pastime. "Cold swimming the colder, the better. I absolutely love it. Slightly to the point where William's [saying] 'You're crazy' and it's dark and it's raining. I will go and seek out cold water. I love it."

While Kate's medical advisors might not yet endorse her chilly swims as she continues cancer treatment, she has managed to immerse herself in the sporting world throughout the summer, including enjoying Wimbledon with her daughter Charlotte and sister Pippa Middleton.

Kate's Other Sports Passions

The Princess of Wales has a passion for physical activity that goes beyond her penchant for cold water swimming. She's a true sports enthusiast, and her dedication to staying active shines through in her various sporting pursuits.

Tennis and Sailing

Kate's love for sports extends to tennis and sailing, two activities she enjoys with Prince William. She even revealed that their tennis matches often turn into a competitive challenge.

Mental Wellbeing and Nature's Embrace

The future Queen to the throne may be embracing a more relaxing pastime, delving into gardening and growing veggies with the kids. In a July homage to the Natural History Museum's fresh gardens, Kate extolled nature's restorative magic.

"I am hugely supportive of the museum's commitment to create a special space which encourages people of all ages to reconnect with nature and learn more about how we can protect our natural world," Kate articulated, as the museum's patron. "I know the power of nature to support our development and well-being, both by bringing us joy and helping to keep us physically, mentally and spiritually healthy. I hope these gardens will be inspiring and transformative for the thousands of people who visit."

Royal commentator Jennie Bond remarked earlier in the year, "Catherine has always taken great strength and inspiration from outdoor life, and there is something so reassuring and optimistic about the green shoots of spring."

A Royal Family of Sports Enthusiasts

Kate's passion for sports is not an isolated phenomenon within the royal family. It's a shared trait, as evidenced by her husband Prince William's interest in various sports, including tennis and sailing. Her brother-in-law, Prince Harry, has also been known to participate in sporting events, including polo matches. The Queen, while not a professional athlete, has always enjoyed horse racing and has been a patron of equestrian sports throughout her reign.

Kate's Inspiring Journey

With Kate on the mend from this year's chemo, she's undoubtedly been equating mental resilience with her recovery, savvy to mindset's clout in cancer combat. Kate's open and honest communication about her cancer journey has resonated with many, inspiring others to prioritize their own mental and physical well-being during times of adversity. Her experiences have also shed light on the importance of support systems, whether it's family, friends, or even a passion for something like cold water swimming, in helping to navigate challenging times.

Beyond the Crown: A Personal Side of Kate

Kate's passion for sports and nature provides a glimpse into a personal side of the Princess of Wales, beyond the regal facade. It highlights her relatable nature and her commitment to living a balanced life, even amidst the pressures of royal duties. Her dedication to her family and her desire to make a positive impact on the world are evident in her choice of hobbies and her philanthropic pursuits. She shows us that even a princess can find joy and fulfillment in the simple things, like taking a refreshing dip in a cold lake or spending time in the garden with her children.