The winter bathing community in Poland is something of a phenomenon. The International Winterbather's Rally in Mielno was initiated in 2004 and has grown significantly in numbers each year. The event was inspired by weekly winter Baltic-bathing get-togethers originated by 20 hardy souls. They come from all parts of Poland. Some of them are organized in regional clubs, while others just do it on their own. Swimming happens year-round but the participants are happiest when the winter season comes. No matter the temperature, the time of day, or how fierce the weather, these swimmers will not be deterred. Most of them started because of possible health benefits, citing improved stamina and a stronger immune system among the results, while others were simply looking for friends or a winter hobby. The number of people regularly swimming in the winter in Poland is 3000 at the Rally in 2009, 1,000 folks jumped in the water for the big splash that ended the Rally.
FULL SCREENWinter Bathing