Have you ever wondered how professional athletes are able to recover so quickly from grueling workouts and competitions? A big part of their success lies in their use of ice baths. Ice baths are one of the most effective ways to reduce muscle soreness and decrease recovery time.
Here’s everything you need to know about using ice bath recovery.
What Are Ice Baths?
An ice bath is exactly what it sounds like—a tub or container filled with cold water and ice. Most people who use ice baths for recovery fill their tub with water that is between 50°F and 60°F and then add several bags of ice to bring the temperature down even further.
Some people can tolerate sitting in an ice bath for up to twenty minutes, but most people only last for ten minutes or less.
The Benefits of Ice Baths
So why subject yourself to such extreme cold? Because it works! Studies have shown that taking an ice bath after a strenuous workout can help reduce muscle soreness, improve recovery time, and even boost immune function.
Reduced Muscle Soreness
One of the main reasons people take ice baths is to reduce muscle soreness. When you exercise, your muscles experience microscopic tears. This is what causes the pain and stiffness that you feel a day or two after a particularly intense workout. Ice baths can help reduce this inflammation and expedite the healing process.
Improved Recovery Time
In addition to reducing muscle soreness, ice bath recovery can also help improve your overall recovery time. This means that you’ll be able to come back from your workouts feeling refreshed and ready to tackle whatever comes your way.
Boosted Immunity
Taking an occasional cold dip can also help boost your immune system. This is because exposure to cold temperatures helps increase white blood cell count and improve circulation throughout the body.
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