Cold Plunge Before or After Workout: A Comprehensive Guide
Cold plunging, often referred to as 'ice baths' or 'cold_water immersion', has gained popularity in recent years as a form of active recovery and health practice. However, there is a lot of debate surrounding when to perform this cold therapy in relationship to exercise performance and recovery. This article aims to provide a thorough and evidence-based overview of the benefits and potential drawbacks of cold plunge therapy, as well as some tips for incorporating it into your workout routine.
What is a Cold Plunge?
A cold plunge involves submerging most of the human body into cold water for a brief period, typically between 1-5 minutes. The water temperature is usually set between 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit. While cold plunges can vary in temperature, the goal is to cool down the body and provide a therapeutic effect. Some people prefer to perform a short cold plunge as a pre-workout warm-up, while others opt for a post-workout recovery routine.
