For many people, the start of the new year in Munich goes hand in hand with a New Year’s resolution. For some, January in Munich means not drinking alcohol or eating a vegan diet for a month. Others, on the other hand, want to motivate themselves to do more sport. In any case, it’s almost always about leaving your comfort zone and doing something good for your body. One suitable way to do this – even if it is admittedly a very tough method – is ice bathing.
When it’s cold enough outside, several groups in Munich devote themselves to this extreme experience. If you’ve already had enough of other winter sports such as skiing and sledding, you might find a new hobby here. Anyone can join in!
The best “cold spots” in Munich
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You should never go ice bathing alone. There are great communities in Munich that you can join: Munich Hot Springs is probably the best-known group. They meet regularly (often on Sundays at 11:00 a.m.) at Munich’s Eisbach, the Isar River, or surrounding mountain lakes. Every Sunday at 11 a.m., it’s time to jump into the cold water. And if you need a little practice, you can make an appointment with professional coaches in advance to prepare yourself.
The Alpines Eisbaden group is also dedicated to extreme adventure. A team is on hand to make your ice bathing experience unforgettable. They meet regularly at the Isar and also offer taster sessions. And you can also network with like-minded people via the ice bathing community.
There are plenty of opportunities. And with the four rivers Isar, Würm, Hachinger Bach, and Eisbach, Munich is perfect for ice bathing. Before you try this unusual winter sport, however, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
What you should keep in mind when ice bathing
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Bathing in water that is 2–5 °C cold is a truly extreme situation. Visit one of the groups to try ice bathing. That way, you can get help in an emergency. It’s also best to wear a wool hat, as most heat is lost through the head.
Don’t jump into the water, but walk in slowly. Jumping into ice water can cause life-threatening cold shock. Also, don’t submerge yourself: the cold receptors in your neck and face can trigger cardiac arrhythmia. Ice bathing is therefore not recommended if you have cardiovascular problems, high blood pressure, a cold, or are pregnant.
A few minutes are sufficient. After that, get out of the water, dry off, dress warmly, and move around a little.
Benefits of jumping into the icy water
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Ice bathing is a great way to meet new people. And in addition to the social aspect, the icy experience also has a very transformative effect on our body and mind. On the one hand, jumping into the cold water brings a great deal of pride in having overcome such a challenge. On the other hand, after the bath, the body releases lots of endorphins, which brings about a general feeling of cheerfulness and relaxation.
Ice bathing also has many physical benefits, such as reducing inflammation in the body and improving blood circulation. Those who dare to jump into the ice water can expect an unforgettable memory—and we’ve also done something really good for our bodies in the process.