Forget cozying up by the fire—Russians are turning winter into a pool party! 🧊 Winter swimming, the art of plunging into icy waters outdoors, is more than a sport—it’s a cultural phenomenon in Moscow, where over 80 clubs embrace the frosty challenge. Leading the charge? The legendary Silver Forest Walrus Club, with 63 years of frosty heritage.
\"You don’t just jump in—you train your body and mind,\" says Andrey Zamyslov, president of Moscow’s Winter Swimming Federation and club chairman. From pre-dip breathing techniques to mastering flexibility in freezing water, Zamyslov reveals the secrets behind building cold resistance and mental grit. 🏊♂️ Think of it as a high-stakes polar plunge meets mindfulness!
Why join the walrus squad? Beyond boosting blood flow and immunity, winter swimmers swear by the adrenaline rush and tight-knit community vibes. ❤️🔥 Pro tip: Start slow, pack thermoses of tea, and never skip the post-swim sauna! Ready to level up your winter? This might just be your coolest adventure yet.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com