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Berlin (dpa / bb) - Winter swimming and ice bathing attract more and more curious and interested people.
Even before the corona pandemic, there were increased inquiries, said Jelena Bundesmann from the “Berliner Seehunde” association.
In the meantime, the association has grown from 60 to more than 125 members and has issued an admission freeze.
“But we are also seeing that even more people are currently going into the deep end.
Interest has increased.
Perhaps also because the leisure opportunities are limited and people have more time and want to get out. "
Health awareness also plays a role, said Bundesmann.
«Some say that ice bathing is good for them, they have fewer colds and are better supplied with blood.
Or it helps against back pain. "
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Bundesmann advises beginners to slowly get used to the cold to ice-cold water and to be careful: "Do not swim alone, in gently sloping water and not go straight into the depths, do not bathe in holes in the ice without safety."
In the beginning, ice bathing while standing or sitting is better than ice swimming for minutes.
Neoprene shoes, a hat and warm clothes to put on quickly afterwards are also useful.
Everyone should definitely listen to their own feelings when swimming in winter and not force themselves to do anything.
The weather could play a big role.
Sub-zero temperatures with sun but no wind could be more pleasant for many than winter bathing at five degrees plus and a strong wind.
"A perceived component also plays a role here."
About the swimming accident in which a man died on Wednesday in an ice-cold Berlin lake, Bundesmann said: “It is risky.
It is a shock to the body.
I wouldn't recommend swimming with your head underwater in ice water to anyone who hasn't practiced it for a very long time and has taken it step by step.
It's not without reason that we start with the autumn season.
And swim into the cold every week. "
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© dpa-infocom, dpa: 210212-99-407775 / 2
Berlin seals