How do you get the best out of an ice bath?

Author: Ms. Penelope Klocko IV  |  Last update: Saturday, August 2, 2025

Submerging as much of your body as possible will give you maximum benefit from your ice bath. But if you're looking for local relief (specific to certain parts of your body), you can still get some benefit from exposing just those body parts to the cold.

How to get the best results from an ice bath?

It is typically recommended to submerge yourself in the water so that your neck and head are above the water level. This helps drop the body temperature drop quicker to the desired temperature so that you can reap the full benefits of the ice bath.

How to take an ice bath correctly?

The ideal temperature for an ice bath is between 50-60°F (10-15°C). Set a timer for 10-20 minutes. Start with 10 minutes and gradually increase the time as you get more comfortable with the cold. Slowly lower yourself into the water, making sure to keep your head above the water.

How long should you ice bath for?

Slowly add ice to get closer to 50-59 degrees. Don't jump into the full 15 minutes: Start with 2-5 minutes and slowly increase your time in an ice bath. Over several weeks, move up to 10 minutes and eventually 15 minutes. Only immerse part of your body: Start by taking ice baths that only immerse your legs.

Do and don'ts of ice bath?

Don't use ice directly on the skin: While using ice may seem like a good idea, it can damage the skin. Instead, use a cold water bath and add ice to it gradually. Don't submerge your head: You should never submerge your head in the ice bath. This can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, which can be dangerous.

All the Ways Ice Baths Affect the Body | WIRED

How to get an ice bath colder?

Many users find that adding ice blocks in the evening allows them to have cold water in their ice bath first thing in the morning. If you want to take an ice bath right away and need to cool your water quickly, cubed ice may be a better option.

Do ice baths have negatives?

“An ice bath can cause reduction in blood flow to the extremities in peripheral vascular disease; increase in blood pressure in those with high blood pressure and increased risk of hypothermia in patients with impaired ability to regulate body temperature — as may be the case with poorly-controlled diabetes,” said Dr ...

Are ice baths healthy?

Research indicates that icy water may have a positive effect on recovery after exercise by reducing inflammation and soreness. It also may help build resiliency, restore balance to the nervous system and improve cognitive function and mood.

Why do my feet hurt so much in an ice bath?

One of the little-known problems associated with cold water immersion is what's known as non-freezing cold injury. When we are exposed to the cold, it's normal for the hands and feet to feel very cold or numb and they may tingle or be painful on rewarming.

What is the best temperature for a cold plunge?

The average cold plunge temperature is between 50-60°F (10-15°C), although some experienced plungers prefer lower temperatures of 37.4-39°F (3-4°C). These ranges can reduce muscle soreness, improve circulation, boost the immune system, and increase energy. Cold plunge duration should begin at 30-90 seconds.

How do you maximize an ice bath?

Submerging as much of your body as possible will give you maximum benefit from your ice bath. But if you're looking for local relief (specific to certain parts of your body), you can still get some benefit from exposing just those body parts to the cold. Partial-body ice baths could be: Hands and arms.

Is a cold shower as good as an ice bath?

Ice Baths Are Better than Cold Showers for Workout Recovery

A recent meta-analysis found that the most effective protocol is 11-15 degrees C (50-60 degrees F) for 11-15 minutes. Ice Baths will be more effective than a cold shower in this sense, partly due to your own confidence and conviction.

Can you overdo a cold plunge?

While cold plunging has numerous benefits, staying submerged for too long can introduce potential risks. Prolonged exposure to colder temperatures may lead to hypothermia, where the body loses heat faster than it can produce, resulting in symptoms like shivering, confusion, and fatigue.

What does a 3 minute ice bath do for you?

"A 3-minute cold plunge is a great way to activate the nervous system and get the blood flowing," says Dr. Rhonda Patrick, a neuroscientist and science communicator. "The cold shock response can have a number of health benefits, including improved circulation, reduced inflammation, and increased energy levels."

What should you do right after an ice bath?

Right after an ice bath you should dry off, change into dry clothes, and warm up slowly. SOURCES: Mayo Clinic: “Can taking a cold plunge after your workout be beneficial?” “Hypothermia,” "Hypothermia: First aid.”

How to build up tolerance to ice bath?

Practice begins at home

It's progressive overload." By that he means you build up your tolerance gradually. Instead of jumping in a freezing cold lake, start by turning the shower cold for 30 seconds, then increase to a minute when you're happy. From there, move onto a cold bath, then stick some ice in it.

How do I make my ice bath more bearable?

Controlled breathing is essential for managing the initial shock and discomfort of an ice bath. Deep, slow breaths can help calm your nervous system and make the experience more manageable. Tips: Deep Breathing: Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth.

Who should not do ice baths?

According to the American Heart Association, cold plunging can cause a sudden increase in breathing, heart rate and blood pressure. This can be dangerous for people with heart conditions, hypertension or those at risk for stroke.

Why do I feel sick after an ice bath?

Have you started excessively shivering or feeling unwell after an ice bath or wild swim? It's likely to be the after-drop! The after-drop can occur if your body detects a warm environment too quickly after exposure to the cold.

Do ice baths burn fat?

Ice baths can be an especially effective way to burn fat outside of the gym. When you're exposed to cold conditions, your body activates a special type of fat, known as brown fat, to help you stay warm.

What are the disadvantages of ice baths?

What are the risks of an ice bath?
  • Hyperventilation or rapid breathing.
  • Involuntary gasping.
  • Spikes in blood pressure and heart rate.

What happens after 30 days of ice baths?

Dipping yourself in an ice bath for 30 days triggers considerable physiological adaptations such as reduced muscle soreness, improved circulation, and potentially heightened immune function. You may also notice an unexpected boost in mental resilience and mood regulation.

Do ice baths remove toxins?

Regular cold water immersion can recalibrate your body's internal systems, promoting a steady and enhanced detox process. By making cold therapy a staple in your wellness routine, you're encouraging your body to maintain a heightened state of metabolic activity, which is essential for flushing out toxins.

What does ice water do to your face?

The cold water constricts blood vessels and stimulates circulation. This rush of blood to the face helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells, promoting a healthy and radiant complexion. Improved circulation also aids in reducing puffiness and under-eye bags.

How to avoid cold water shock?

And guess what, there's some REALLY easy ways to prevent cold water shock!
  1. Wear the correct clothing for taking a dip.
  2. Take a spare pair of dry clothes and keep them in your dry bag.
  3. Pack a blanket in the car, and a hot water bottle with a flask too.
  4. Take warm drinks with you on your trip.

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