Take a seat in the hot box

Hot as Hell. This is a term we often use loosely and often don’t really think about what we’re saying when we state it. No one knows how hot Hell really is, and those who do are unable to let us, those still on this Earth how it feels. But if I was to guess, I would say the closest to feeling the heat of Hell would be to sit in a sauna, set at a temperature of 110 degrees Celsius (230 degrees Fahrenheit), for as long as possible, with the time maximum at ten minutes. Sound like fun? I didn’t think so.

You try it and tell me you’re not ready to go to Heaven.

Thus, we have competitors from more than 20 countries who find this to be a great idea and they compete in the Sauna World Championship. The championship is held in Heinola, Finland each year. The competition began in 1999 and has brought men and women alike to the challenge. There are six participants in each heat. 84 contestants compete each year and the last person out of the sauna without aid is declared the winner.

Picture from http://www.esquire.com/the-side/feature/funny-competitions-031610
There are several rules in this sport, as in any. A contestant can wipe sweat from his or her face but not off the body. Any hair that is longer than shoulder length must be tied back in a ponytail and there is a limit on the length of the swimsuit contestants wear.

After one violation, judges give a warning to the competitor. After a second violation, the contestant is disqualified.

After a death and a critical-conditioned contestant in this year’s competition, it is undecided whether this sport will continue to be around next year. I guess if you’re gutsy, or dumb, enough to try it, go ahead.


This information came from Rick Reilly's newest book Sports From Hell.