But as predicated inour 2023 wellness forecast, the practice has gone mainstream.
Thehealth benefits of cold water exposureimproved stress resilience,muscle recovery, andmoodmake this practice worth the chilly plunge.
We dont just talk about the power of cold plungeswe put them to the test.
Were committed to bringing you up-to-date, hands-on insights to help you make the best decision.
Available in four colors,the acrylic tuboffers ample space to spread while keeping your heart under water.
Read ourfull review of the Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0.
My Plunge tub was very easy to use and set up.
I also love the insulated cover.
It fits on really nicely and keeps the water clean.
And I appreciate the horizontal format so it’s possible for you to really stretch out.
I just wish some of the accessories felt as high-end as the rest of the tub.
Read ourfull review of the Plunge Tub.
This is the tub I’ve had set up in my backyard for the past year.
I’ve plunged in high-end wellness spaces, yet I was impressed by Inergize’s more affordable design.
Plus, there’s aheating componentto warm water to 105 degrees Fahrenheit.
The warming was a lot slower than the cooling option, but still an appreciated perk.
Taller folks should expect to sit with their knees bent, but you will still be fully submerged.
When deflated, the tubonly weighs 25 pounds.
Read myfull review of the Inergize tub.
My partner helped me drag both boxes through the housebut they wereextremelyheavy.
I set the tub up on the back porch, where it’s stood the test of time.
But after that initial set-up, the chiller doesnt take nearly as long."
Pro tip:TheSun Home Portable Ice Bathis the longest option on our list at 76.8 inches long.
Per the brand, it’s long enough to fit those up to 68 fully submerged.
Yousimply fill the container with ice and waterthat’s all!
When testing theIce Barrel, I loved that it wassmall enough to tuck into the corner of the garage.
Pro tip: Add epsom salts for even moreice bath benefits.
The biggest downside of this (or any) ice bath?
Those who are shorter or rounder should check out thenew design: the Ice Barrel 300.
Its larger opening is better suited to heavier folks.
An ice bath is exactly as it sounds; a bath of ice water.
Cold plunge pools use an external chiller to cool water down to 37.5 F, no ice necessary.
Why are cold plunge tubs better than ice baths?
I recommend cold plunge pools over ice baths.
When water is in motion, your body can’t effectively warm it up and create a thermal barrier.
Thus, your cold plunge is more effective.
What cold plunge tubs do biohackers & athletes recommend?
), and whether any additional tools or assistance were required.
Usability
Cold plunging should be a seamless experience, so we prioritized user-friendly models.
Cold plunge tubs that were simple to operate without the hassle ranked higher in our evaluations.
We tested the range of cold parameters and observed any fluctuations or abnormalities that could impact its efficacy.
Consistency in temperature regulation was a standout feature in our top picks.
Built-in filtration systems, Wi-Fi controls, timers, and customizable configs were among the key functions we tested.
Tubs with innovative or user-friendly features that enhanced our plunging experience stood out as top options.
We assessed the overall design of each model, from its size and portability to its aesthetic appeal.
Tubs that were low-maintenance and easy to keep in pristine condition were clear winners in this category.
In fact, some experts believe that missing out on hormetic stressors can actually hold you back.
What [they do] is activate the production of brown fat, which exists mostly in your back.
Brown fat puts out signals that increase your metabolism," he explains.
Do cold plunge tubs burn fat?
Weight loss falls into the latter category.
A study published inScientific Reportsfoundstem cells subjected to cold temperatures formed brown fat that can increase calorie burn1.
Research on mice shows similar results ofbrown fat activating in cold temperatures2.
Data also suggests that ongoing cold exposure can helpconvert white fat into metabolically healthy beige or brown fat3.
Summary
Who shouldn’t take a cold plunge or ice baths?
Experts previously told mindbodygreen thatpeople with high blood pressure should skip cryotherapy.
FAQ
Is there any risk associated with cold plunge tubs?
This is dependent on temperature: under 10C, three minutes is sufficient.
But even at 20C, no more than 10 minutes is necessary."
Who could benefit from a cold plunge tub?
That said, they are a great means of physical recovery after working out.
“The reduction in inflammation and the attenuation of the stress response are universally positive,” says Harper.
Who should not do cold plunge?
Is a cold plunge worth it?
Adding a cold plunge to your routine has many physical and mental health benefits.
As our expert explained, you dont have to dive right in.
What’s the easiest cold plunge tub to take care of?
Are ice baths good for you?
Sure, putting your body through stress may sound counterintuitivebut this is actually a good kind of stress.
Want other ways to invest in your health?
Explorethe benefits of hot and cold therapy, and check out or picks for thebest infrared saunasandinfrared sauna blankets.
