A frozen lake in Beijing's Yuyuantan Park is a favorite with locals, some of whom have been ice-swimming in it for years.
Swimming club members smash a swimming lane through the thick ice each season, but they must break the surface ice each morning as it re-freezes each night.
Diving into the icy water takes determination.
[Mr. Wang, Ice Swimmer]: "You have to wake up early. People must increase their determination. If people don't have this determination, there is no way they will be willing to get into the icy water."
For many, ice swimming has become a major part of their daily routine and members have said they can't imagine their life without it.
Many also believe it has healing qualities.
Seventy-five year-old He Guilan has been ice swimming for 28 years. Before she began the winter sport, she was diagnosed with cancer and spent months in hospital with unsuccessful treatments. She is convinced that ice swimming had improved her health.
[He Guilan, Ice Swimmer]: "It has mainly helped my energy. This place is like heaven because people are always talking and laughing. After you finish swimming, you become very energized. It also strengthens your immune system. When China had the SARS outbreak, I was not afraid of catching it. I still took the bus, climbed mountains and went everywhere I wanted. And I still didn't get sick. I'm not afraid of the swine flu either. I don't need any vaccines and I don't take any medicines."
Some believe the swimming makes them feel younger. Others say the icy water makes their bodies build up more heat.
[Mr. Yang, Ice Swimmer]: "Your body gets really hot. We say in the north it's like a 'white fire'. When I get into the water I feel cool but once I'm out I feel better."
But not everyone is hot for this icy sport. Everyday, curious bystanders come to watch the swimmers, but stay well away from the frigid water.
