What is the point of the Polar Bear Plunge?
A polar bear plunge is an event held during the winter where participants enter a body of water despite the low temperature. In the United States, polar bear plunges are usually held to raise money for a charitable organization. In Canada, polar bear swims are usually held on New Year’s Day to celebrate the new year.
Is a Polar Plunge safe?
Jumping into cold water causes a strong gasping reflex, and if the plunger’s head is underwater, a mouth- or lungful of water could result. Therefore, plunges that involve cutting a hole in ice for people to jump through carry the greatest risk of drowning.
Who invented Polar Bear Plunge?
Peter Pantages
That man was Peter Pantages, who came to Canada about a year earlier, according to Vancouver writer and researcher Eve Lazarus. Pantages died in 1971, but his friend and fellow cold-water swimmer Harry Kovish had been doing the New Year’s Day swim since the 1940s, said Webb.
Where did the Polar Plunge originate?
Starting as far back as the 1920s, the Polar Plunge – or Polar Bear Swims/Dips, as they’re also known – trace their origins back to a Canadian tradition. In terms of the tradition that we’re most familiar with, at any rate.
Can you get sick from doing a Polar Plunge?
If you’re healthy and sober, jumping in the cold water for just a minute or so is unlikely to have any ill effects, since the immersion won’t be long enough to affect your core body temperature, Farcy says.
Is cold water plunge safe?
Some people like to celebrate the New Year by jumping into cold water, while others take the plunge as part of frigid fundraisers. Either way, the sudden shock from cold water can indeed be dangerous, especially for those with heart conditions, who might have a heart attack, according to medical experts.
How long does the Polar Plunge last?
Another reason the trend has spread rapidly online: Once you’re “challenged” or “called out” to do a polar plunge, you have 24 hours to complete it, then challenge someone else.
What do you wear for a Polar Plunge?
Bring a robe, blanket, towel or jacket to wear while waiting to plunge and for when you get out of the water. A towel to dry off as well as an extra towel to stand on is also a good idea. Wear tennis or water shoes. Not only is the ground freezing, but your feet will be numb in the water and it’s good precaution.
When did Polar Bear Plunge start?
The History of Polar Bear Swim Day The first recorded Polar Bear Swim took place in Boston 1904. In many Canadian communities, plunging into icy water for a swim is a New Year’s Day tradition.
How does the Polar Plunge help Special Olympics?
Funds raised from the Polar Plunge help serve 9,305 incredible Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes, who are breaking down barriers to build communities of inclusion. Athletes Supported for 1 year!
When is the polar bear plunge in Delaware?
The Lewes Polar Bear Plunge, held annually on the first Sunday in February, has developed into a truly iconic Delaware event, and is Special Olympics Delaware’s most significant fundraiser. The 31st annual event will be an In-person and Virtual Plunge. It will be your plunge … your way.
Is the Lewes Polar Bear Plunge virtual only?
Lewes Polar Bear Plunge With the safety of our Bears and volunteers involved in the Special Olympics Delaware Lewes Polar Bear Plunge in mind, we have made the decision that the 30th annual event will be a virtual only Plunge, and have the full support from our sponsors at Wawa and Discover.