What started as a winter dare has become one of Joburg’s most refreshing wellness events. Coffee & Plunge is the brainchild of a few friends, a one-man ice bath, and a shared love for coffee and it’s now a full-blown movement of cold dips, good vibes, and zero ego.
It all began when one of the co-founders, Anton, started plunging in his pool in the dead of Joburg winter dragging friends along for mini ice bath sessions after gym. “We thought, everyone should be enjoying this surrounded by their mates,” says co-founder Bern Constance. “That’s how Coffee & Plunge was born. We wanted to bring ice plunging to everyone, but with a twist.”
“At our events, lifeguards coach you through your first plunge, and we make it super clear: there’s no pressure,” he explains. “Sure, you can challenge yourself, but there are no prizes for who stays in the longest. We’re here to cheer you on, not time you.”
The event attracts a mix of regular gym-goers and total newbies. “We’ve seen egos freeze away in those baths,” he adds. “Everyone's a sceptic until they try it then they ask when the next one is.”
More than just a wellness trend, Coffee & Plunge is changing how Joburgers connect. “It’s hard to socialise without alcohol here. You’ve got running clubs and CrossFit boxes, but what about the rest of us? Our events bring people together for a healthy start to the weekend, no six-pack required.”
Next up: taking the plunge nationwide. Coffee & Plunge heads to Durban on 16 June and Cape Town on 1 November 2025, with plans to host monthly events across major cities.
Bern's advice for those thinking of joining? “Just show up, no expectations. Bring an open mind and be ready to have the time of your life.”
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