Ice baths have risen in popularity over the last couple of years thanks to the Wim Hof Method®, whose three pillars of wellness include cold therapy (exposure to extreme temperatures) to feel happier, healthier and stronger. Now athletes, fitness enthusiasts and celebrities are embracing the trend. But should you try it too? Here, we take a look at some of the benefits
Kickstarted by Dutch motivational speaker Wim Hof - otherwise dubbed 'The Iceman' - cold water immersion therapy is said to have a whole host of physical and mental benefits.
Alleviating muscle aches and pains and calming anxiety are just a couple.
We spoke to ice experts The Ice Co to find out why we, too, should embrace the Wim Hof Method® and take the plunge.
Here are 5 reasons to embrace the uber cool ice bath trend...
- Relax sore muscles
Ice baths are said to relieve intense muscle pain.
In short, the chilly temperature of the water works its magic by reducing damage to the affected tissue and lower the risk of further swelling.
Harry Styles has been reported to ditch after-show parties in favour of an ice bath to help him recover from performing.
He's also a fan of cold water swimming.
- Reduce stress
The exposure to the cold paired with controlled breathing and meditation are said to help manage anxiety and reduce stress levels.
- Boost your immune system
Research has shown that people who have cold baths (strangely) catch fewer colds.
Apparently it's is all to do with the cold exposure which increases white blood cells and natural killer (NK) cells which fight off infections.
- Lose weight
When adopted as part of a healthy lifestyle, ice baths can help with your weight loss journey.
Cold exposure activates brown adipose tissue – also known as brown fat – which has the potential to work the body harder and, therefore, help you lose more calories.
Immersing yourself in cold water also enhances your body's response to insulin - responsible for regulating blood sugar levels.
It could be helpful if you have diabetes.
- Get your blood pumping!
The Body Coach, Joe Wicks, is also a huge fan of ice baths.
When submerged in the icy water, the blood moves towards your organs to keep you warm, increasing your heart rate and elevating your respiratory rate.
Other celebs who have a penchant for an ice bath include Russell Brand, who set himself the challenge of doing the Wim Hof method every day for 30 days.
David Beckham uses them as a form of self-care, while Emma Willis, famously practised breathing control in freezing temperatures.
With wellness firmly on all our agendas, we think this will be a trend to stay.
It seems the only thing left to do is get the ice cubes in!
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