Our club, I. PKO Praha, was delighted to take part in the first Prague Sportiáda, a children’s sports festival held on Sunday 23 June 2024. The project aims to introduce children to the joys of sport and bring them back from computers and mobile phones to playgrounds, sports grounds and sports halls. The festival celebrated healthy living and physical activity, and we were excited to introduce young enthusiasts to adapting to the cold.
Our stand was in a prime spot, where we had set up a small pool of cool water. To give visitors an authentic taste of cold-water swimming, we added ice cubes to keep the water refreshingly cool and give some sense of stepping into a chilly pond or river. Our aim was for children to experience immersing themselves in cold water and overcoming the initial cold shock.
Participants of all ages came to our stand throughout the day. Many children wanted to try it and bravely entered the pool, staying for a few minutes while their parents watched proudly.
Another challenge was to hold an ice cube for at least thirty seconds. As well as testing their tolerance of the cold, this activity encouraged mental resilience and patience. The children competed and cheered each other on, making it even more exciting and enjoyable. Some returned to our pool several times.
Our coaches were on hand to offer advice and encouragement to everyone. We explained breathing techniques and gradual adaptation to the cold, both key aspects of successful cold adaptation. Parents also appreciated the opportunity to ask questions and learn about introducing their children to cold adaptation at home.
Prague Sportiáda was a wonderful opportunity to introduce our sport to a wider audience and inspire children to take on new challenges. It was lovely to see their enthusiasm and determination as they pushed their boundaries and enjoyed a day of fun and sport. We look forward to the next festival and hope to welcome even more young cold-water swimmers next year!
Photos: Angelika Hájková, Tomáš Hájek