Chilling Adventures: Embracing Winter Swimming in Astana for Every Age!

ASTANA — As temperatures in the capital plummet to as low as -40 degrees Celsius, an increasing number of individuals are discovering a distinct and intriguing method to embrace the cold. Winter swimming, which involves individuals momentarily immersing themselves in frigid water, has evolved into a common activity for those eager to test their physical and mental boundaries.

Winter swimming in Astana. Photo credit: @klub_morzhei_astana.

Winter swimmers, often referred to as ‘walruses,’ are recognized for their enthusiasm and resolve. The Bodrost (Vigor) winter swimming club in Astana has welcomed these adventurous swimmers since the late 1960s.

Azamat Dokumbayev, the Bodrost winter swimming club’s leader. Photo credit: Dokumbayev’s personal archives.

“Back then, participation was quite limited. Today, our club draws individuals of all ages, from young adults to seniors, with our oldest participant being 85 years old,” remarked Azamat Dokumbayev, the head of the club, in a conversation with The Astana Times.

He mentioned that the activity is not only about enduring the cold but also about gaining health advantages. Research indicates that immersing oneself in cold water can enhance the immune system, improve cardiovascular health, boost blood circulation, and promote endorphin production, which further elevates overall wellness. However, Dokumbayev emphasized that preparation and gradual acclimatization are essential to preventing issues like thermal shock or undue strain on the cardiovascular system.

“For novices, it’s vital to proceed gently. We advise a gradual and controlled entry into the water instead of jumping right in, as sudden exposure can pose risks. It is always safer to swim under supervision, particularly for newcomers. In certain instances, we recommend individuals with pre-existing conditions like hypertension or heart problems to consult a physician before participating,” stated Dokumbayev.

“Nevertheless, numerous members with such conditions have reported enhancements in their health after consistently engaging in this activity,” he added.

The Bodrost club’s schedule is straightforward yet fosters community. Every weekend and on public holidays, members convene at 9 a.m. to prepare the ice hole, jog, swim, and share tea together in a warm nearby house. These meetings primarily occur along the embankment of the Yesil River close to Astana’s Central Park.

Required supervisors during winter swimming sessions. Photo credit: @klub_morzhei_astana.

“We clear the ice, distribute tasks, and connect over our mutual enthusiasm for the sport,” remarked Dokumbayev.

When questioned about the club’s demographic, Dokumbayev pointed out there are no constraints. Individuals of all ages participate; some families even bring their children. “Last year, we even had a grandmother teaching her two-year-old granddaughter to take quick dips in the ice hole,” he noted.

The club’s reputation has spread beyond Kazakhstan, drawing foreign visitors and local international communities who perceive winter swimming as a distinctive cultural experience in Astana.

Every weekend and on public holidays, participants convene at 9 a.m. to set up the ice hole, jog, swim, and relish tea together in a cozy nearby house. Photo credit: @klub_morzhei_astana.

“We have welcomed travelers from Germany who discovered us on Instagram during their stay in Astana. They requested to swim midweek, and we organized it specially for them. We opened the ice hole, and they took a plunge. We’ve also hosted visitors from France, the U.S., and various other nations eager to experience it. It is accessible to everyone, not merely a chosen few. Occasionally, individuals strolling along the embankment observe the activity, decide to participate, change their attire, and swim right then and there,” explained Dokumbayev. 

For those who may feel uncertain, Dokumbayev highlighted the mental barriers. 

Participants gathering and warming up prior to plunging into the icy waters. Photo credit: @klub_morzhei_astana.

“Most constraints exist within our minds. The water temperature consistently remains above freezing, even during the most severe cold. The chill rejuvenates the body, activating a self-preservation instinct that leaves you energized and invigorated,” remarked Dokumbayev.

The members engage in swimming year-round, including in winter, which commences in December and persists until the Nauryz festivities in April. Whether for health benefits, camaraderie, or the excitement of confronting the cold, winter swimming in Astana continues to draw a varied and committed following.