Cold Plunge
Immersion that can have profound positive benefits on your fitness, metabolism, health, and more!
Your Ancestors Were Onto Something.
If you’re anywhere on the fitness or sports side of the interwebs these days, you’ve very likely heard of Cold Plunge. Your favorite athletes have done it for years. Now, it’s becoming much more recognized – and accessible – for everyone from ultra marathoners, casual athletes, weekend warriors, yogis, and more. And, while it may have some modern new aspects to it, it’s been a part of human existence since… ever.
The advent of hot water was awesome – undoubtedly our predecessors were thrilled to skip the monthly (yearly?) dunk in the nearest body of natural water.
What was undoubtedly a necessity Back in the Day (AKA Pre Hot Water) has now become a sought-after activity for everything from muscle recovery, boosting metabolism, reducing inflammation, and mood enhancement. And while our ancestors might be agog that we’re foregoing the hot shower in lieu of a few minutes in frigid water, they could also undoubtedly attest to its benefits.
Why Cold Plunge?
Ok, hear us out. Cold water — the kind that makes you question your So even though we really love ourselves a hot shower (the hotter the better, amirite?) it turns out there are a plethora of documented benefits of bracing up for a dunk in some seriously cold water.
Muscle Recovery
Name your favorite pro athlete, and you’ll likely remember a time when s/he has used an ice bath after the Big Game.
Cold plunging has long been favored by athletes and fitness enthusiasts for its ability to speed up muscle recovery after intense workouts. The cold water constricts blood vessels, reducing inflammation and flushing out metabolic waste products like lactic acid. This results in quicker recovery times, allowing individuals to bounce back faster and train more effectively.
Improved muscle recovery means less soreness.
Not just for athletes
Improved Circulation
The shock of cold water triggers vasoconstriction, followed by vasodilation once you exit the plunge. This process effectively exercises your circulatory system, promoting better blood flow throughout the body. Improved circulation can lead to enhanced nutrient delivery to tissues, better oxygenation of muscles, and overall cardiovascular health.
Enhanced Mental Resilience
Stepping into icy-cold water can be an intense mental challenge, requiring focus, control, and deep breathing to endure. Over time, regular cold plunging can help build mental resilience, as individuals learn to embrace discomfort and manage stress more effectively. This mental toughness can translate to other areas of life, improving resilience in the face of challenges.
Mood Enhancement and Stress Reduction
Cold water immersion triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good hormones. This can result in an immediate mood lift and feelings of euphoria post-plunge. Additionally, the shock to the system activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels. Regular cold plunging can thus serve as a powerful tool for managing anxiety and improving overall mental well-being.
Be sure to start slow – your body needs time to adjust to the temperatures.
Boosted Immune Function
Exposure to cold water has been linked to improvements in immune function. The body’s response to cold stress includes an increase in white blood cell count and the activation of immune-boosting mechanisms. By regularly subjecting the body to controlled cold exposure, individuals may experience fewer illnesses and enjoy a strengthened immune system.
Enhanced Skin and Hair Health
Cold water immersion can work wonders for your skin and hair. The cold temperature tightens pores, reduces puffiness, and improves circulation to the skin, resulting in a healthy glow. Additionally, cold water can help seal the cuticle of the hair, making it appear shinier and more lustrous.
Increased Metabolic Rate
When exposed to cold, the body works harder to maintain its core temperature, leading to an increase in metabolic rate. Over time, regular cold plunging can help individuals burn more calories and potentially aid in weight management efforts.
The Takeaway
Cold Plunge is an excellent addition to your regimen
While our ancestors may not have been up to date about metabolic benefits or muscle recovery, they probably reaped the benefits without realizing it. From accelerated muscle recovery to enhanced mental resilience and immune function, cold plunging offers a wealth of advantages for both body and mind. Whether you’re an athlete looking to optimize performance or simply seeking a refreshing way to invigorate your health and wellness routine, diving into the world of cold plunging may just be the perfect fit.
Ready to take the plunge? Check out VENT Latham and Guilderland — the new Cold Plunge is available to those with SPLASH access.
Don’t have SPLASH access? See the front desk to upgrade your membership today!