In many countries, cold-water swimming has become an increasingly popular hobby. In Brussels, too, the phenomenon is now surfacing.
Jumping into fresh, cold water has long been praised both as a form of exercise and for its health benefits, as the cold water exposure triggers a release of dopamine – the body's feel-good hormone. Dutch motivational swimmer Wim Hoff – also known as The Iceman – was the first person to boost the practice's popularity.
In the UK, various groups of cold-water swimmers have emerged in recent years, bringing like-minded people together for a refreshing dip. POOL IS COOL – the organisation behind Brussels' only open-air public swimming pool – is hoping to soon launch its very own community of cold-water swimmers.
It aims to do so by opening up FLOW, the 17 x 7-metre pool inaugurated during the summer of 2021 in Anderlecht, during the winter.
"The time has come: with POOL IS COLD you can finally take a winter dip in Brussels, every Sunday from 10:00 to 12:00," POOL IS COOL said in a statement. Daredevils are invited to the first winter swim on 31 December. The water temperature depends on the weather and is currently 6°C.
Well-being boost
Reservations are not necessary, and participants are free to pay what they can (starting from €5, a contribution of at least €7.50 per participant is recommended). The entrance ticket includes a warm drink which can be enjoyed post-plunge.
When questioned on why anyone would willingly submerge themself in ice-cold waters, POOL IS COOL responded that winter swimming is a boost for your physical and mental well-being, "potentially offering relief from pain, inflammation, and even psychological conditions."
The organisation did stress that people who are unsure about their physical health should consult a doctor before taking the plunge.
During the first phase, the pool will only open for two hours on Sunday mornings. However, if the project is a success, the pool may also open on a weekday.
