Let's Get Chilly: Cryotherapy
Ice baths, cold showers, and why getting uncomfortable is one of the best things you can do for your body and mind
Why?
- Ease muscle & joint soreness
- Increase speed of recovery
- Enhance cognitive focus
- Lower body temperature (sleep aid)
- Decrease inflammation
- Boost immune system
- Boost metabolism
- Improve circulation
- Promote lymphatic drainage
- Increase thermogenesis (control of body heat)
- Increase happiness (norepinephrine rush)
When?
Morning
Increases alertness & energy (personal rec)
Afternoon/Evening
Stress reduction
Pre-Workout
Not recommended; can tighten muscles and increase injury risk
Post-Workout
Aids soreness & inflammation, but may hinder strength gains by reducing "good" inflammation
Who?
Icing benefits everyone, but optimal temps vary:
- Women may get results at ~55°F; men typically go sub-50°F
- For women, temps below ~55°F may reduce benefits
How?
- Bathtub + packs of ice + thermometer
- Gardening trough + 10 lb ice molds
- Outboard water chiller
- Purpose-built ice bath
- Cold showers (great place to start)
Ask us for gear recs!
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