so my friend wants me to do the polar bear club with him on tuesday. can someoen please tell me the dangers of this? I dont have any health conditions but is it likely to have a heart attack? heart attacks run in my family so im scared. also what would be a good thing to wear? just a swim suit?
2007-12-31 00:24:35 · 2 answers · asked by Anonymous in Sports ➔ Swimming & Diving
I have done the polar bear club. It is REALLY cold. I just wore a swimsuit. And I stayed in for like 7 or 8 minutes. You won't get a heart attack. It is fun. Go for it.
2007-12-31 04:08:57 · answer #1 · answered by Pre Lives 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you have a family history of heart problems you should be cleared by a doctor for the polar bear swims before you even think about engaging in them. If your doctor gives you the go-ahead, go for it! The risks of polar bear plunges are relative to the water in which you are swimming and the conditions your body is acclimated to. You can engage in a quick "plunge" (in and out within a few seconds) with little to no risks. There is a constant risk of hypothermia if you do not quickly dry off and warm up after the plunge. However, there are some people whose bodies are more accimated to cold water who can actually swim in the cold water for a few minutes with minor side affects. And still others are extremely well acclimated and can spend time swimming in the cold water with no repercussions. If you have never done a polar bear plunge before you may want to simply try the quickie and see how it goes (with a doctor's okay of course). The novelty of the polar bear swim lies in wearing a basic regular bathing suit and diving into frigid water. Have fun and stay warm!!!
2007-12-31 12:08:59 · answer #2 · answered by Kristy 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋