Tips for Ice Swimming

Ice swimming can be enjoyed by almost everyone, but consult your doctor first if you suffer from heart or blood circulation problems.

Never go ice swimming under the influence of alcohol or when sick with the flu, fever or other illness. Never go ice swimming alone. It is always morefun with a companion or
group, but it is also essential that someone can call for help if something unexpected happens. If it does, then call for help immediately. Plan ahead of time how this could be done. The general emergency number in Finland is 112.

Before ice swimming, read and adhere to all instructions at the swimming place. There may be different directions at
each place. To ensure everyone’s safety, notify the authorities immediately if you notice any potential dangers.

Warm up your muscles before ice swimming with some light exercise.

In addition to a bathing suit, wear slippers or woollen socks to ensure that your feet do not freeze in the snow on the way to the ice. Hats and gloves are also recommended.

Begin slowly! Be careful of slippery steps. Experienced ice swimmers may stay in the water longer, but for beginners a quick dip is sufficient. Listen to your own body to determine how long is enough for you. The first times you go in, it is normal for the cold water to cause your breathing to contact. This is not dangerous.

Monitor children closely when ice swimming. If they get scared, they may forget how to swim.

Never jump headfirst into an ice hole. Diving beneath the surface of the water or otherwise wetting your head is
not recommended, as it accelerates the loss of heat. This can lead to hypothermia.

Ice swimming does not require taking a sauna, although around a half of all ice swimmers do combine their swim with a hot sauna. It is not good to go too fast from the sauna to the water or vice versa, as the temperature
difference can cause strain on the heart. The change in blood pressure can cause a feeling of dizziness.

After your sauna and ice swim, dress warmly and enjoy a hot drink.

Sources: Consumer Agency and Suomen Latu, the Central Association for Recreational Sports and Outdoor Activities