Katarzyna Jakubowska of Poland has made history as the first woman to endure the ultimate cold endurance test, standing in a box filled with ice for an astonishing 3 hours, 6 minutes, and 45 seconds. The 48-year-old set a new world record for the longest duration of full-body contact with ice among women.
Previously held by Wim “The Iceman” Hof, the men’s record stood at 1 hour, 53 minutes. The current overall record is 3 hours, 11 minutes, and 27 seconds, achieved by Krzysztof Gajewski of Poland.
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Katarzyna, a designer by profession, undertook this challenging feat to test her limits and encourage greater female participation in ice challenges. Prior to the attempt, she underwent extensive medical tests to ensure her health wouldn’t be compromised.
Her preparations included three practice attempts, monitoring body temperature fluctuations, and various treatments such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy and massages. Additionally, she utilized self-hypnosis to maintain a positive mindset.
During the record-breaking attempt, Katarzyna reported feeling no pain or discomfort, expressing that cold is not an obstacle for her, but rather a source of warmth. As the 2023 Polish Walrus Championships women’s category winner – a competition where participants strive to be the last one standing in a tub of ice – Katarzyna is accustomed to pushing her body to extremes.
Throughout the endurance challenge, her body temperature and consciousness were regularly monitored to ensure her well-being. Katarzyna now aims to pursue more ice-related world records, emphasizing that women can excel at similar, if not higher, levels than men.
“I can control what I’m in and my head knows when it needs to send a signal to shiver more and keep the temperature up”, she said.
“The most difficult moment was when I saw that the audience was terrified, halfway through my time. Earlier I asked to explain to the audience why my body was trembling, because not everyone understands it and it is a normal process.”
Link of the video is attached below:
