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OULU, Finland (Reuters) - Some call it sport, some call it fun, others swear by its health benefits, rattling off a list that would make a snake-oil salesman blush.

Ice swimming will ease arthritis and relieve rheumatism, cure depression and keep colds and flu at bay, devotees say.

Headaches or sinusitis? Having trouble sleeping? They insist things will improve if you go regularly to the "avanto," the Finnish word for a hole in the ice.

A dip in a frozen lake during the Arctic winter might not seem the most appealing pastime, but for many in Finland it is a weekly habit, as regular as cross-country skiing or skating.

"It is really something very special, something excellent," said 85-year-old Leo Wanamo, climbing out of a hole cut through about 1-1/2 feet of ice after a short dip in the sea water below.

The retired Finnish army colonel praises the invigorating effects of cold water as he dons a sheepskin coat against an icy breeze, icicles forming on his gray temples.

"As a young man, I used to do it every single day, but now I am down to three times a week."

While Wanamo does not make any specific claims for the health benefits of an icy dip, he delights in being fitter and healthier than his peers who have not been hooked.

"The first time is the worst. After that it is very, very fine."

VIM, VIGOR, VERVE AND VITALITY

Medical researchers say studies show ice swimming can help treat some illnesses or rehabilitate injuries, but add there is not much proof of any effectiveness in preventing ill health.    Continued ...

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