Polar Bear Challenge Declaration...

Last year I undertook the Polar Bear Challenge as a way of pushing my comfort zone. I had to swim in water below 10 c for 200 m twice a month, between November and March. As a polar bear I had to swim in accordance with the

"clothing rules of the International Ice Swimming Association which means that the only attire allowed is one standard swimsuit  ( which may not extend over the shoulders or below the knees ), a single standard silicone or latex swim hat (no bubble or fancy hats), goggles, nose clips and earplugs if required. Shoes may be worn to enter or exit the water but they must be removed for the duration and distance of the swim counted for the challenge."

I completed the challenge and thoroughly enjoyed it. So much so that this winter:

I am undertaking the Polar Bear Challenge - Silver Level.

This means that in addition to following the clothing rules, i will be required to swim 250 m twice a month.

However, as an additional twist I am going to push myself a little further and aim for 300 m each session because that will bring me back to the side of the lake where the sauna is situated.

I will mostly be swimming at a beautiful place called Andark Lake. (http://www.andarklake.co.uk/swimming.html)

Last winter the temperature got down to about 3 c, which is cold enough to be considered Ice Swimming!

My family think I'm mad heading off to swim in freezing water but the buzz and the anecdotal health benefits make it all worth while to me.

(https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-45487187)

So, there you have it. Its out there for the whole world to know. You can follow my progress on this blog and on my Instagram.

Please feel free to share your experiences with wild swimming in the comments. I look forward to hearing from you.

Thanks for popping by.

Love AJ xx