Katarzyna Jakubowska, a 48-year-old Polish woman, has earned the title of the “queen of ice” by setting a world record in cold endurance. After enduring the frigid challenge of standing in a box filled with ice for over three hours, she made history as the first woman to pass this ultimate test of cold resilience.
Katarzyna’s remarkable accomplishment involved setting a new world record for the longest duration of full-body contact with ice, clocking in at an impressive 3 hours, 6 minutes, and 45 seconds. Prior to this feat, she had already demonstrated her endurance by winning the women’s category in the 2023 Polish Walrus Championships, a competition where participants aim to outlast others in a tub of ice.
Katarzyna undertook this challenging endeavor not only to test her own strength but also to inspire more women to participate in such demanding competitions. Before attempting the record, she prioritized her health by undergoing a series of medical tests to ensure the safety of this mind-blowing challenge.
To prepare for the icy ordeal, Katarzyna went through three practice attempts, closely monitored her body temperature fluctuations, and underwent various treatments such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy and massages. Additionally, she practiced self-hypnosis as part of her comprehensive preparation.
Katarzyna’s ability to find warmth in the cold and control her body’s response to shivering reflects her exceptional mental and physical resilience. Despite facing challenges, including audience misunderstandings about her body’s reactions, she persevered and successfully completed the record-breaking attempt.
Katarzyna sees her achievement as a testament to the strength of women. She expressed her belief in the tremendous strength possessed by women and aimed to inspire others through her journey. As an ordinary woman with a dream of holding a Guinness World Record, Katarzyna encourages everyone to fearlessly pursue their dreams and turn them into reality.
It’s worth noting that the current men’s record is held by Krzysztof Gajewski from Poland, with a time of 3 hours, 11 minutes, and 27 seconds. Katarzyna’s feat adds a significant chapter to the world of cold endurance, breaking barriers and showcasing the remarkable potential within every individual.
