The Benefits: A Closer Look
Ice baths have become increasingly popular among athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike. But what are they, and are they really beneficial? Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of ice baths.
What are Ice Baths?
Also known as cold water immersion, involve submerging your body in cold water for a period of time. The temperature of the water should be between 10-15 degrees Celsius (50-59 degrees Fahrenheit). This can be done in a bathtub, a swimming pool, or even a lake or river.
What are the Benefits?
There are many benefits. Here are some of the most notable ones:
Reduce Inflammation: Taking an ice bath can help reduce inflammation and swelling, which can help your body recover faster.
Improve Recovery Time: can help reduce the time it takes for your body to recover after a workout or competition.
Reduce Muscle Soreness: can help reduce the soreness in your muscles after a workout.
Improve Circulation: can help improve circulation, which can help your body heal faster.
Reduce Stress: can help reduce stress levels and improve mental clarity.
Improve Sleep Quality: can help improve sleep quality, which can help you feel more rested and energised.
Stimulate the Longevity Gene: can help stimulate the longevity gene and hormesis, which can help reduce the effects of ageing.
Affect Sirtuins: Ice baths can affect sirtuins, which are proteins that help regulate cellular processes and can help protect against ageing and disease.
Is a Cold Shower Cold Enough?
A cold shower can help reduce inflammation and improve circulation, but it won’t be as effective as an ice bath. The cold water in an ice bath is much colder than a cold shower, and it can help stimulate the longevity gene and hormesis, as well as affect sirtuins.
Scientific Studies About the Benefits
There have been several studies that have looked at the benefits of ice baths in relation to hormesis. One study found that ice baths helped reduce inflammation and improved recovery time, while another found that cold water immersion helped improve circulation and reduce muscle soreness.
Studies are now being conducted to see if Ice baths can “turn on” the longevity gene and help to repair DNA cellular damage by activating sirtuins to improve the health of the cells.
Ice baths can be a great way to help reduce inflammation, improve recovery time, and reduce muscle soreness. They can also help improve circulation, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality.
Reach out now to see how you can incorporate Ice Baths as part of a customised training and nutrition plan Contact Us