The bold and the brave are expected in Nanaimo this weekend for bare-bum bungee jumping.
The naked event at WildPlay Elements Park is just one of several winter events that allow B.C. nudists to shed their clothes and their inhibitions.
“Nude recreation isn’t limited to the summer,” Skinnydippers Rec Club president Paul Andreassen told the The Province.
In addition to a nude Polar Bear swim, the Surrey club hosts nude indoor swim and gym nights, including yoga lessons and table tennis, as well as nude bowling.
Nude bungee jumping, however, requires participants to be brave as well as bold, especially those who opt for a cold-water touch.
WildPlay manager Kevin Beerman said more than 150 people are expected to jump at this weekend’s event, which supports the B.C. Schizophrenia Society of Victoria.
“The people who come out are unique individuals,” Beerman said, adding the event attracts thrill-seekers and naturists alike.
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While staff attempt to keep the naked jumpers “corralled” near the jump site, a naked volleyball game has been known to break out from time to time. The family park is open for the weekend to those 18 years and older.
“We get people who come out year after year, and we also get those who want to try it once for the bragging rights,” said Beerman.
Andreassen said there are many different reasons people take up a nudist lifestyle.
“At some point, they question the routine and they start exploring,” he said.
“The idea that clothing is necessary to control sexuality is flawed.”
Andreassen also believes bathing suits are unnecessary for warmth or hygiene, two arguments often made against nude swimming.
“The imposition of clothing starts from very young. We’re taught not to question it, and soon we can’t imagine ourselves without clothes,” he said.
The Skinnydippers club boasts about 250 members, including “families, singles, couples, professionals, gays, straights, CEOs, chemists, teachers – there is no one type of person that we see.”
Cold weather doesn’t prevent nudists from practising their lifestyle, Andreassen said.
“I know the childish comments people will make. But they don’t know what they’re talking about. If you haven’t tried it, you don’t know.”
The nude bungee happens Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For information, visit wildplay.com/nakedbungy2013
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