One of the benefits of a cold plunge pool is reduced soreness and recovery time following a workout. If you have a hot tub, steam room, or dry sauna at home or place of business, you may want to consider adding a cold plunge pool, also. Alternating between immersion in hot and cold water is called “contrast hydrotherapy” and is also known as hot/cold immersion therapy. This is a form of treatment where either an injured or sore limb, or the entire body, is immersed in ice water followed by immediate immersion in warm water. This procedure is repeated several times, alternating between hot and cold water. Both amateur and professional athletes use this treatment method to stimulate blood circulation and reduce inflammation.
The military also uses ice baths as part of military training. Ice baths are usually used following a period of intense physical exercise. Cold therapy numbs the nerves around a sore muscle or joint, reducing pain and relieving inflammation and muscle spasms. There is some evidence that taking the plunge into cold water may reduce delayed onset muscle soreness, but studies are inconclusive, with one report suggesting that cool water (60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit) was just as good as colder water (54 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit), and warned against exceeding 10 minutes of immersion.
Cold water can also help increase your metabolic rate, which can aid in weight loss efforts. Cold water forces your body to adjust its temperature, which uses calories. A normal body temperature is 98.6, and when it drops below that level, your body will do everything it can to get back to that core temperature, resulting in a significant caloric burn.
Utilized wisely, a cold plunge pool can provide benefits that include improving circulation, helping speed up recovery time after an injury, and offering a refreshing respite from the heat of a sizzling summer day. As with any new physical regimen, you should check with your physician before beginning any new activity.
Call Diamond Spas today at (800) 951-7727 to discover how our talented designers and skilled craftsmen can help you start enjoying the benefits of a cold plunge pool in your home or at your place of business.
