Events
The Finnish Winter Swimming Championships
In 1989 winter swimming club Norppa organized the very first Finnish Winter Swimming Championships. Nearly 100 people took part. Since 1990 Suomen Latu has organized the event, and in the past few years the competition has attracted over 1000 participants a year. The main event is the 25-meter breaststroke. Competitors for the event are classified by gender and age group. The championships are held annually in January or February.
The World Winter Swimming Championships
The first World Winter Swimming Championships were held in Helsinki in 2000. In addition to the main events there was a special treat - a fun to watch and quite impressive water performance competition for groups of 3-20 people. The International Winter Swimming Association organizes the World Winter Swimming Championships, and they are held every two years in February or March in different host countries. For more information please contact mariia.yrjo-koskinen(at)suomenlatu.fi
Instructions for winter swimming
1. Winter swimming is good for almost everyone, but if you are worried about your health, consult a doctor first.
2. Warm up your muscles before going into the water.
3. Let your body cool off after the sauna.
4. Walk carefully, as the paths and steps may be slippery.
5. Never jump into the water headfirst.
6. Breathe calmly and evenly when going into the water.
7. For your first time, just have quick dip,
8. Bring a friend with you.
9. Listen to your body! How many times you go in the water, how long you stay at a time and whether you do it after the sauna or not are all individual choices.
10. Dress warmly after swimming.
11. Have something warm to drink and just enjoy the experience.
12. Never go in the water while ill or under the influence of intoxicants.
13. A child can also become interested in winter swimming. If the child shows an interest, then let them try it.