The Polar Plunge: An Adirondack Winter Ritual
For the cryo-curious, nothing beats the exhilarating effects of a dip in icy cold Adirondack waters.*
Lake George Polar Plunge
“Courage is knowing it might hurt and doing it anyway. Stupidity is the same. And that’s why life is hard.” – Jeremy Goldberg.
Polar Bear Plunges are defined as “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,” often on New Year’s or Christmas Day.
We prefer to dive into a Bloody Mary on either or both days, but that’s not the point of this article.
Polar Plungers typically gather at a designated time on the edge of a local body of water, where they all rush into said body of water simultaneously, usually at the shrill blast of a starter whistle.
Most plungers bolt to make their way in and out of the bone-chilling water as quickly as humanly possible. Others try easing their way in (we advise against this approach — you’ll never make it all the way in).
A few daredevils, usually first-timers, throw themselves into the icy wetness with abandon. Regardless of the speed at which one enters, everyone is eager to leave the water and escape the effects of the biting cold on their naked flesh.
Annual Adirondack polar plunges.
Many polar plungers believe New Year's weekend is as good a time as any for those wishing to purify their souls in the icy winter waters of the Adirondacks.
Feeling Long Lakey Polar Bear Plunge is an annual event in Long Lake at the end of December. This year’s event benefits the Wounded Warrior Project.
The New Year’s Day Polar Plunge in Lake George, a tradition since 1973, is consistently recognized as one of the U.S.'s most famous polar bear dips. Each year, as many as 1,000 plungers participate.
Speculator and Lake Pleasant New Year's Day Polar Plunge, on January 1, at noon, jump in the river next to the Speculator Pavilion. Spectators are welcome, and organizers encourage them to cheer on the brave souls taking an icy dip into 2024.
The Boston L Street Brownies from Southie
Other times of the year for Adirondack Polar Plunges include the Lake George Winter Carnival and charity events throughout the cold-weather months.
If you decide to partake, know that you are a part of a long line of idiots adventurous souls. Polar bear swim clubs have been around the U.S. for over a century (and even longer in Europe).
The oldest-documented New Year’s Day polar bear plunge event in America first took place in 1904 when the L Street Brownies, a swim club founded in 1902 in South Boston, Massachusetts, took their first icy cold plunge together into Dorchester Bay (it was wicked cold). They’ve celebrated each New Year's arrival with a polar bear plunge ever since.
Many find mental and physical benefits in the Polar Plunge.*
According to a variety of sources, plunging into cold water induces the release of endorphins, often referred to as "feel-good" hormones. They believe this natural mood boost can help alleviate stress and improve overall mental well-being. Taking a dip in icy waters requires significant mental fortitude. The shock to the system can be invigorating and empowering, setting a positive tone for the rest of the year.*
Some studies purport that even a cold shower can elevate blood levels of the body’s mood-regulating and painkilling hormones. These naturally occurring chemicals are essential to combating depression. Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a mood disorder common in most northern latitudes where sunlight can be scarce for extended months. This may be why ice swimming has been practiced for many generations in Nordic cultures.
Wellness spas worldwide have embraced the Nordic practice of a hot sauna followed by an ice-water plunge ritual on their menu of wellness treatments. Cold-water immersion has been shown to stimulate blood circulation, potentially improving cardiovascular health.
The rapid cooling and subsequent warming of the body during a Polar Plunge is said to promote better blood flow and circulation. Regular ice water swimmers say the thrill of the chill increases energy levels and sharpens the mind.
Participating in a Polar Plunge often involves joining a community of like-minded individuals willing to embrace a shared challenge. The camaraderie and support from fellow plungers create a unique and memorable experience.
Six tips to prepare for an Adirondack Polar Plunge.*
Consult with a Healthcare Professional: If you have any pre-existing health conditions, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before participating. Cold-water immersion can be intense, and ensuring it's safe for you is essential.
Dress Appropriately: Wear appropriate swimwear or costumes for the occasion. Some participants go all out with creative and festive outfits, adding an element of fun to the plunge. It’s highly recommended plungers wear water shoes or sneakers.
Warm-Up Beforehand: Engage in light physical activity to warm up your body before the plunge. This can help prepare your muscles and reduce the shock to your system.
Know Your Limits: Don't push yourself too hard. If the water is exceptionally cold, consider gradually acclimating your body by splashing cold water on yourself before the plunge.
Have Warm Clothes Ready: Immediately after the plunge, have warm clothes, towels, and blankets ready to help you warm up quickly. Staying in wet, cold clothes for an extended period can lead to hypothermia.
Use the Buddy System: Don’t plunge alone. Take a buddy (or buddies) with you to keep an eye on each other in case someone needs help or there is trouble.
We wish all Polar Bear Plungers the best of luck this winter season. We’ll be supporting you from the dock/bar/lodge. The first hot toddy is on us.
*ADK Taste is not, nor are we holding ourselves out to be a doctor/physician, nurse, physician's assistant, advanced practice nurse, or any other medical professional ("Medical Provider"), psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker ("Mental Health Provider"), registered dietician or licensed nutritionist, or member of the clergy. ADK Taste is not providing health care, medical or nutritional therapy services, or attempting to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any physical, mental or emotional issue, disease or condition. The information provided in or through ADKtaste.com is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. You agree and acknowledge that ADK Taste is not providing medical advice, mental health advice, or religious advice in any way. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider and/or Mental Health Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific health or any medications, herbs or supplements you are currently taking before implementing any recommendations or suggestions from our Website. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical advice because of information you have read on this Website. Do not start or stop taking any medications without speaking to your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. If you have or suspect that you have a medical or mental health problem, contact your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider promptly. The information contained on this Website has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.