Ex-Cop Swims in Vladivostok Ice for Strength and Health
46-year-old native of Chita Alexey surprises residents of Primorye with an unusual hobby. He swims among ice floes four times a week, unafraid of local humidity and winter frosts, as reported by our colleagues from CHITA.RU.
The man moved to Vladivostok in 2018 and after that became interested in hardening. First, he dipped into an ice hole for Epiphany, later switched to contrast showers, and eventually decided to swim even in harsh winter.
«It feels like it gives me strength. I practically don»t catch colds. My well-being only gets better from it. I«ve noticed that both my health and energy level have improved, my body is constantly in tone. After the procedure, you get such a boost, it makes you want to live,» said Alexey.
According to the man, although winters are harsher in his native Chita, due to the coastal humidity, the local cold feels much sharper. Passersby who notice him are surprised by the unusual hobby of the Transbaikal resident and even film it on video.
«With high humidity, -15°C (5°F) can feel like a full -30°C (-22°F). It gives a greater sharpness to the frosty sensations,» clarified the former police precinct officer.
On December 17, 2025, we wrote that a blogger named Mikhail, also known as Boroda (Beard), swims in winter and summer. Like Alexey, he does it for the soul, and even in December frosts enters the water as if it were the height of July.
