As many as 20 percent of young people plan to jump into the sea this winter or have already done so, new data from Ipsos show.
The survey shows that five percent of Norwegians so far plan or have bathed in winter this winter. In addition, eight percent said they plan to swim in the sea or lake this season, but have yet to do so.
The organization Norsk Friluftsliv took the initiative to conduct a survey.
- I have the impression that winter swimming has become more popular in the last year. I predict that this is a trend that will develop in the future, says their secretary general Bente Lier.
Young people most interested
It is the young people aged 15-24 that seem to be most interested in such activity.
Among them, as much as 15 percent. declares that he plans to swim in cold water this winter. However, in this age group as well, only five percent actually jumped into it.
- The fact that it has become popular could possibly be related to the time in which I find myself. Many people say that ice baths are almost therapeutic and have a great sense of mastery, says Lier.
Most women and northerners
Data from Ipsos also shows clear differences in interest of Norwegians swimming under ice. Differences are visible both based on gender and the part of the country inhabited.
- While as many as seven percent of Norwegian women say that they bathed in winter this winter, only four percent of men did the same. Plus, it's no surprise that northern Norway is home to the toughest and most active ice-bathers, laughs Lier.
Among people living in northern Norway, eight percent say they have already taken an ice bath this winter. For comparison, only two percent of the inhabitants of central Norway can boast of this achievement.
It can have a positive effect on the psyche
The health effects of ice baths have been widely debated, and research to date shows mixed results.
Some studies have found that this activity can have positive effects on mental disorders such as anxiety and depression. On the other hand, people with heart problems are not advised to take an ice bath because of the shock it causes on the body.
“Those of you inspired to test yourself should be aware that experts believe you should never swim in ice alone, concludes Lier.
Photo: Siv Bakken
Source: Norsk Friluftsliv
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