Nudism FAQ

Q. Why become a nudist?
A. Have you ever wanted to go swimming without a swim suit? Or sit out in the sun and not get any tan lines? There are probably as many reasons for becoming  a nudist as there are people. Nudism helps to increase one’s self-esteem, promotes relaxation and relieves stress.

Q. What kinds of people are nudists?
A. Nudists come in all shapes, sizes, and ages–doctors, teachers, construction workers, lawyers, dispatchers, truck drivers, police officers, secretaries, firefighters, nurses! The Roper Organization reports that 40 million Americans have skinny-dipped in mixed company. Your colleague at work, or the family next door, may spend their leisure time at a club affiliated with the American Association for Nude Recreation – Northwest (AANR-Northwest) and the American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR). You are accepted for who you are inside, not how you look on the outside. People who enjoy nude recreation develop a healthy body image which builds self-esteem.

Q. What are nudist clubs like?
A. The atmosphere of nudist clubs is wholesome and friendly. People enjoy everyday recreation activities such as swimming, walking, hiking, cycling, tennis, and volleyball. Most clubs have sports and other events much like any resort. Club members are careful about who enters the facility and if anyone seems to be there for the wrong reason, he or she will be asked to leave.

Q. What should I know before I go?
A. The personality of each club is unique. Rules may vary somewhat from club to club. In general the rules are quite simple, based on common sense. Always bring a towel to sit on, and possibly another to dry off with after the pool or hot tub. It is also a good idea to bring sunglasses, sun screen, and comfortable shoes. You are expected to look after your children, and conduct yourself as you would in any family environment. Some clubs insist on nudity on the first visit, while others are “clothing optional,” allowing you to remain clothed until you feel comfortable. Be clothed when practical, unclothed when possible.

Q. How do I visit?
A. Families, couples and singles are invited to visit. Call or write the clubs which interest you for more information about facilities, prices, food, pets, hours, etc. Travel clubs (those without permanent facilities) usually schedule visits to landed clubs as well as have events at members’ homes–and public lands where available. Annual membership dues and day fees, or grounds fees, vary from club to club. Before visiting, contact the clubs that interest you and ask questions.

Q. Should we bring our children to the club?
A. Children are natural nudists who grow and develop healthy attitudes toward the human body. They learn about the differences between the male and female body in a natural atmosphere. It’s the rejection of nudity that’s a learned response. Children raised in nudist households are more likely to have better educations, better jobs, and more stable marriages. [Abramson, UCLA]

Q. Why should I join?
A. As a member of an AANR-Northwest club affiliated with AANR, you have the benefits of club membership such as no grounds fees. You receive a free subscription to The Bulletin, the AANR monthly newsletter for members only. In addition, you will enjoy a at least a 20% discount off of daily grounds fees at participating landed clubs throughout the United States and Canada. All this and more when you join your local nudist club. To learn more about the American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR), click here. AANR-Northwest resorts and clubs are listed on the “Northwest Region Nudist Clubs” link in the menu to the left.   The page has links to email addresses and websites.  To find out more about the clubs or to arrange a visit, contact them for information or follow the links to their web sites.

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