I’ve long since known of the many benefits of ice baths (see the video for a list), but I’ve been slow on the uptake to implement into my routine.
I decided to commit to an entire month of daily ice baths and report back with how I feel (and my water bill because I’m taking the ice baths in my tub). The benefit of living in a cold climate is that water from the tap is below 50F!
Here’s how to take an ice bath:
- Don’t think about getting in, just do it!
- Water needs to be 50-60F (10-15C)
- Submerse yourself 3-5 minutes (neck and belly in the water)
- Longer & colder is not necessarily better
Are there risks?
Ice baths are generally considered safe but may NOT be recommended due to the way the cold water constricts blood vessels for conditions such as:
- heart disease
- high blood pressure
- diabetes
- peripheral neuropathy
- poor circulation
- venous stasis
- cold agglutinin disease
Check with your doctor first.
*Facts are from a recent systematic review published in the journal Sports Medicine Feb 2022 https://rdcu.be/dsQrm
I’ve challenged myself to a month of ice baths.
Who’s in? Will you join in my challenge?