Ice baths may seem extreme and do not appeal to everyone, but the benefits are huge, not only are there physical benefits but there are also mental health benefits.
Here are a few benefits of a post workout ice bath.
- Reduces inflammation and swelling – When you take an ice bath the cold temperature narrows your blood vessels, so they get smaller. Then when you get out of the ice bath they dilate (re-open) rapidly. During this process your muscles flush out metabolic waste and take in blood which delivers the much-needed oxygen and nutrients to the muscles. This enables a faster recovery from a hard workout or a long run. This process also helps with reduced muscle soreness and aids recovery which in turn reduces the chance of a overuse injury.
- Lowers core body temperature – This is particularly beneficial if you are working out or running in a hot or human environment. Also, post workout your muscles are dying to be cooled down and an ice bath provides this for them quickly.
- Supports immunity – There is evidence to suggest that an ice bath can boost your immunity and studies have been done that support this theory.
- Improves mental health – When you step into an ice bath due to the cold shock you will experience an elevation in mood. Then remaining in the bath with strength your resilience thus enabling you to regulate your stress hormone (cortisol).
Tips for your 1st ice bath
- Build it up slowly!
- Do not exceed 15 minutes.
- Don’t go ice cold straight away, start with just cold water then add ice.
- Wear warm clothing on the top part of your body to keep the exposed areas of yourself warm.
For any help or advice on exercises and post workout recovery please contact www.arbrookpt.co.uk
