There was a time when a relaxing,
hot bubble bath was all I needed to unwind, but these days, my ice bath has
taken precedence. And trust me, nobody is more surprised about this than I am.
Like countless wellness trends before it, cold-plunge pools, ice baths, and
cold-water therapy have been fueled by social media and celebrities, with Harry
Styles, Lady Gaga, and David Beckham all singing its praises.
Just as massage guns transitioned
from elite recovery tools to workout essentials, cold-water therapy is no
longer reserved for athletes or luxury spas. Initially, the thought of
immersing myself in water below 60 degrees Fahrenheit seemed absurd. However,
when a seemingly sensible friend shared that she replaced her morning coffee
with an best cold plunge for improved “mental clarity,” my curiosity
was piqued. Ice-cold water instead of coffee? Madness! Or so I thought.
The Benefits of Cold-Water Therapy
Some studies suggest that
cold-water immersion can relieve muscle soreness, aid in weight loss, and
enhance mental health by increasing noradrenaline levels by 530% and dopamine
by 250%. Steven Dick from the Fitness Group explains further: “Exposure to cold
water can also stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural
painkillers, and activate brown adipose tissue (brown fat), which burns
calories to generate heat.” Intrigued by these claims, I decided to test the
MyoMaster MyoFreeze ice bath.
Testing Cold-Plunge Pools
The ancient Greeks practiced
“thermalism”—alternating between hot and cold exposure—to ease muscle fatigue
and reduce disease. My first dip in the plunge pool, however, was less than
idyllic. The icy water was horrific, and if not for my professional commitment,
I would have abandoned it immediately. But, as a professional, I persevered. By
my third dip, I managed to stay in for two minutes and even began to relax.
Research by Susanna Søberg, author of Winter Swimming, suggests that 11 minutes
of total immersion per week, divided across several plunges, provides optimal
health benefits.
Best Cold-Plunge Pools Reviewed
1. Lumi Recovery Pod Ice Bath
Price: $120
Features: Compact size, portable, easy to store.
Although not the most attractive or durable, it’s great for those with limited
space and offers easy setup with a straightforward drainage system.
2. Sun Home Cold Plunge
Price: $4,499
Features: Sturdy construction, remote temperature
control, powerful chiller. It’s capable of reaching temperatures as low as 33
degrees Fahrenheit and is efficient in electricity use. Its design makes it
easy to use and maintain.
3. Hydragun Supertub
Price: $2,599
Features: Triple-layer Permafrost chilling system,
commercial-grade ozone generator, and dual chiller options. Suitable for both
cold and hot baths, it’s durable and comfortable with advanced features for
temperature control.
4. MyoMaster MyoFreeze
Price: $783
Features: Full-size, portable, puncture-resistant. It’s
easy to inflate and has a durable build. Comes with a lid and a thermometer,
and the optional MyoChill filtration system is available for enhanced cooling.
5. The Cold Pod XL
Price: $128
Features: Generous size, quick setup, and robust design.
It includes a cover to protect from debris and has an easy drainage system.
It’s a good value option for larger individuals.
6. Edge Theory Labs The Edge Tub
Elite
Price: $4,990
Features: Ideal for serious cold plungers with its
comprehensive chilling and heating capabilities, remote control, and app-guided
sessions. While pricey, it offers excellent functionality and portability.
Is an Ice Bath Worth It?
After two months of cold plunging three times a week, I have noticed several benefits:
Enhanced Mood: I look forward to my ice baths, which help
minimize muscle soreness and leave me feeling refreshed.
Mental Clarity: The initial shock is harsh, but the mental
clarity and improved mood following a plunge are worth it.
Reduced Puffiness: Ice baths help reduce bloating and
inflammation, making me feel less groggy.
Better Choices: While not a weight-loss miracle, ice bathing
has made me more health-conscious.
Getting Started with Cold-Water Therapy
While the benefits are promising, it’s important to approach cold-water therapy cautiously. Consult your doctor, especially if you have a heart condition, and avoid ice bathing if you are under 18. At home, you can start by filling your existing tub with ice and water. However, a dedicated ice bath offers convenience and removes the hassle of preparation.
Cold-plunge pools are available at various price points, and while you get what you pay for, even a budget-friendly option can provide significant benefits.
Check out The Best Cold Plunge Tubs of 2024: Tested and Recommended.
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