The 11 Best Cold Plunge Tubs Tested By Experts (2024)
Cold plunge pools and tubs are quickly gaining popularity as people learn about the many benefits of cold water therapy (ice bath therapy). Cold water immersion therapy can help improve circulation, reduce inflammation, speed up muscle recovery, and boost immunity.
If you’re looking for a way to incorporate cold exposure therapy into your health routine, a cold plunge pool or tub may be the perfect solution. Whether you are a runner trying to qualify for the Boston Marathon, or a triathlete aiming to qualify for the Kona Ironman, you might benefit from using a cold plunge.
I found that as I began going through my bucket list of marathons, using an ice bath was more important than ever. Combine a great portable cold plunge tub or even a DIY cold plunge tub with one of the best chilling motors for the perfect scenario.
Okay, let’s look at some of the best cold plunge tubs and ice baths on the market for home use.
Table of Contents
What is a Cold Plunge?
A cold plunge (also referred to as an ice bath) is a type of shock therapy that involves submerging yourself in cold water for a short time. This cannot be replicated by simply taking a cold shower… the entire body(up to the neck) needs to be submerged in the extreme cold for the best physical and mental health benefits.
The theory behind it is that cold immersion will help to increase blood flow and reduce inflammation. There is some scientific evidence to support this claim, and this once-alternative treatment has been gaining in popularity.
Cold plunges are usually done in a cold plunge tub of ice water, but can also be done in a cold pool or cold plunge barrel. The key is to make sure that the water is as cold as possible either by ice or a cold plunge chiller machine. Many people who have tried this therapy say that it is uncomfortable at first, but the sensation goes away after a few minutes.
What to Look for in a Home Cold Plunge Solution
When shopping for a cold plunge pool or tub, there are several factors to keep in mind.
- Do you want the unit to be powered by ice or self-chilling? This is a big decision as the high-capacity chilling motors are the most expensive part of any unit and greatly affect the price. If you opt for self-chilling, you’ll need to make sure you have a spot for it near a power outlet. If you opt for ice-cooled, you’ll need to make sure you keep enough ice on hand for each time you want to use it and understand that you’ll be draining and cycling out the water more often (possibly after each use).
However, with ice, you’ll lower the water temperature at a quicker pace. Generally, even the most powerful chilling motors only lower the water temperature by about 6-8 degrees Fahrenheit per hour. You must keep the motor running continuously to maintain these cold temperatures. With ice, you dump it in, and the water chills fairly rapidly. So be sure to choose wisely based on speed and convenience. - Consider the size of the unit. Cold plunge pools and tubs come in a variety of sizes, from small personal units to larger models that can accommodate multiple people.
- Think about the safety and environment of the tub. Do you have small children or pets that could potentially fall in while you’re not around? You’ll want to make sure the cold baths come with a secure cover. Check with each manufacturer for options.
- Finally, consider your budget. Cold plunge pools and tubs can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, so choose a model that fits your needs and budget.
The Best Cold Plunge Tubs
Now that you know what to look for in a cold plunge tub, let’s take a look at some of the best cold plunge tubs on the market. Also, don’t miss reading about The Best Water Chillers for Cold Plunge Tubs.
Overall Best Cold Plunge Tub
OVERALL BEST COLD PLUNGE Tub
The Edge Tub Elite XL
The Edge Tub Elite XL is the big brother to the world’s first all-in-one, portable ice bath. It solves an issue that many people have – they want more space in the tub! The Elite XL comfortably fits people up to 7 feet tall. It’s the largest inflatable cold plunge tub that we’ve seen. It’s huge. It would fit two average-sized people comfortably as well.
While most tubs take about 75 to 80 gallons of water, the Elite XL can take 130 gallons! You definitely aren’t balled up in this tub.
The sturdy, inflatable cold plunge design is built for portability with a 15-minute setup and takedown time so you can take it with you to your next event, race, or adventure and get the edge on the go. It works similarly to a Stand Up Paddleboard or a commercial inflatable boat. The material becomes rock-hard upon inflation and most people don’t even realize it is inflatable when using it because it is so solid.
The powerful 1 HP chiller cools or heats the water within 3 hours down to 37 degrees and the filtration and sanitation keep the water clean and ready for you whenever you need it.
If you would like to use this as a hot tub, the motor can heat it up to 105 degrees as well.
The chilling motor connects to WiFi and can be controlled by an app on your smartphone. This includes customizable programming that allows the inflatable tub motor to turn on and off at preprogrammed times or change from cold to hot mode so you can take a cold plunge in the morning and a hot tub in the evening or after a race!
This tub pretty much offers everything you will need. Not only is it portable, but it can chill or heat depending on your desire. This is perfect for every health-conscious person.
Special for iRace – Get $150 off your Edge Tub Elite XL purchase with code: IRACE
Cost
$4990.00 – Tub and Chiller/Heater
(Special for iRace – Get $150 off your Edge Tub purchase plus free shipping with code: IRACE).
Lid?
It comes with an insulated cover with childproof buckles, a dual-action inflatable pump, and a carrying backpack.
Cooling Process
Ice or 1 HP chilling motor that will cool the water to approximately 10-12 degrees per hour depending on your location. The motor volume is approximately 65 decibels. This is the most powerful motor we’ve come across and is 4x as powerful as many other tubs.
The chilling unit will also heat the water to approximately 105 degrees so the unit can double as a hot tub.
The chilling unit weighs 78 pounds but is on wheels to help with transport.
The motor is Wi-Fi enabled so you can remotely (via an app) chill or heat your tub so it’s ready when you get home.
Filtration Method
Water maintenance is a breeze with the built-in 2-step water filtration system and non-chlorine-based sanitizer. The 20-micron filter ensures that any foreign contaminants are removed prior to entering the unit and the high-flow water pump fully circulates the water every 15 minutes.
All that is required is adding an Oxidizer, testing the Sanitizer level weekly, and replacing the filter about once per month depending on usage. Included in the purchase of your tub is a 4-month maintenance kit with 4 filters, a bottle of Oxidizer, and a bottle of Sanitizer. Individual maintenance items can also be purchased on their site.
Cold Water Temperature Minimum
37 degrees if cooling and as hot as 105 degrees if warming.
Colors Available
White with black accents. Blue interior of the tub.
Tub Dimensions
(External) 35.4″W x 63″L x 25.0″H
(Internal) 30.5″W x 56.5″L x 25.0″H
Tank Capacity in Gallons
130
Financing Available?
Yes.
Warranty?
There is a 1-year warranty on both The Chiller and The Edge Elite XL Tub and their peripherals against manufacturing defects and other issues associated with normal product use. This warranty does not cover wear-and-tear or abuse of the product. There is also a 30-day return window during which The Edge Tub Elite XL may be returned for a full refund (net return shipping costs) for any reason.
Read our full review of The Edge Tub Elite XL
Product Pros
Product Cons
Best Standard Size Portable Tub
Best Standard Size Portable Tub
Coldture
This is definitely a versatile cold plunge tub. It comes in two style variations – the Classic Tub and the Barrel Tub. Both are the same price so you choose which one fits your needs the best.
The whole setup is easily portable, and you can quickly inflate it into a rock-hard and well-insulated tub. If you’ve ever used an inflatable stand-up paddleboard, you know how stable those things can get.
It’s perfect for taking to a race with you or keeping it at home for an after-training plunge.
Also, you can purchase the tub itself if you want to start small and use ice as the coolant. Or purchase an entire system that comes with a chiller motor and live your best life.
We like the ability to use both. Maybe ice on the road, and the chilling motor at home.
Cost
$4,555.00 – Tub and Chiller
$1,100.00 – Tub by itself
Lid?
Included with your purchase is a cover to keep debris out.
Cooling Process
Ice or .8 HP chilling motor that will cool the water to approximately 6-8 degrees per hour depending on your location. The motor volume is approximately 61 decibels.
Filtration Method
UV disinfection filter and water filter if using the Chilling motor. None if using ice.
Cold Temperature Minimum
37 degrees if cooling and as hot as 105 degrees if warming.
Colors Available
Black
Tub Dimensions (External)
Classic Tub: 30″W x 63″L x 26″H
Barrel Tub: 37.5″W x 39″H
Tank Capacity in Gallons
105
Financing Available?
Yes.
Warranty?
1-year standard warranty for the chiller and tub. 30-day 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Best Deep Portable Tub
BEST DEEP Portable Tub
Inergize Cold Plunge Tub
The Inergize Cold Plunge Tub is a portable, ultra-comfortable inflatable tub. Setup only takes about 15 minutes and can be done by a single person.
Inergize is half a foot deeper than a lot of the competition. This allows larger people to get completely submerged up to the neck and fully submerge the vagus nerve. This also allows many users to sit more upright rather than slouching down.
The inflatable tub cover is nice as it helps keep the water cold so you’re not having to run your motor all the time.
The water-chilling motor connects to WiFi and can be controlled by an app on your smartphone.
Finally, it comes with a duffle bag/backpack carrying case so you can take it with you on all your adventures!
Special for iRace – Get $150 off your Inergize Cold Plunge Tub purchase with the discount code: IRACE
Cost
$3990- Tub and chilling unit
(Special for iRace – Get $150 off your Inergize Cold Plunge Tub purchase with discount code “IRACE“).
Lid?
It comes with a tight-fitting inflatable tub cover (with lockable straps) for insulation and to keep out debris. It also includes a dual-action hand pump, 4 months of sanitation solution, and a carrying backpack/duffle bag.
Cooling Process
Ice or 3/4 HP chilling motor that will cool the water from 65 degrees to 37 degrees in about 4-5 hours depending on your location. This is about 6-7 degrees F per hour. The chilling motor is 50dB when running, which is lower than other motors. This is a strong motor as some leading cold plunge tubs only come with a 1/4 HP motor.
The motor can also heat the water up to 105 degrees Fahrenheit if a hot soak is preferred.
The motor is Wi-Fi enabled so you can remotely (via an app) begin chilling the tub so it’s ready when you get home.
The chilling motor weight is 60 lbs.
Filtration Method
Filtration is done by a replaceable filter, sanitation solution, and ozone sanitation. The water is completely filtered 7 times per hour.
Included in the purchase of your tub is a 4-month maintenance kit with a filter and 4 months of sanitation solution.
The manufacturer recommends replacing the filter once a month and using the sanitation solution weekly.
Cold Temperature Minimum
37 degrees or heats to 105 degrees
Colors Available
White
Tub Dimensions
This tub is tall, so you won’t have to scrunch down to submerge your shoulders.
EXTERIOR: 27″W x 48″L x 30.0″H
INTERIOR: 20.5″W x 42″L x 30.0″H
The tub is 25 pounds empty. 600-700 pounds full of water
The chilling unit is 60 pounds.
Tank Capacity in Gallons
60 – 70
Financing Available?
Yes, through Affirm Payment.
Warranty?
1-year warranty on both chiller and tub against manufacturing defects. The warranty does not cover wear-and-tear or abuse of the product.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Runner Up Best XL Portable Tub
RUNNER UP BEST XL Portable Tub
The Yukon XL Deluxe Portable Tub
The Yukon Cold Plunge XL Deluxe Tub is massive. It cools or heats the water quickly thanks to one of the best water chillers for cold plunge activities. It has a 1HP motor, and it’s completely portable.
The sturdy, inflatable design is built for permanent installation or portability with full setup only in minutes. You can take this with you wherever you go. The material is similar to what is used with inflatable stand-up paddleboards. The unit becomes rock-hard upon inflation and most people don’t even realize it is inflatable when using it because it is so solid.
The chilling motor is controlled via touchscreen, as well as an app on your smartphone/WiFi. Use the app to set up pre-programmed times to cool or heat the water so you can take a cold plunge in the morning and a hot tub in the evening!
This tub pretty much offers everything you will need. It’s portable, can chill or heat well, has a good temperature and flow rate, and can fit just about any body type due to its large size. Also, it’s priced very competitively, so go get one!.
Special for iRace – Get $250 off your Yukon Tub purchase with code: GRAVY250
Cost
$4,699- Tub and Chiller/Heater
$1,099.00 – Tub by itself
(Special for iRace – Get $250 off your Yukon Tub purchase plus free shipping with code: GRAVY250).
Lid?
It comes with an insulated tub cover, an air pump for inflating the unit, a carrying backpack, a deluxe chiller/heater, and hoses.
Cooling Process
Ice or 1 HP cold plunge pool chiller motor that will cool the water to approximately 10-12 degrees per hour depending on your location. The motor volume is approximately 52 decibels. This is a very powerful motor that is 4x as powerful as many other tubs.
The motor is Wi-Fi enabled so you can remotely (via an app) chill or heat your tub so it’s ready when you get home.
Filtration Method
Water maintenance is a breeze with the built-in 2-step water filtration system and non-chlorine-based sanitizer. The 20-micron filter ensures that any foreign contaminants are removed prior to entering the unit and the high-flow water pump fully circulates the water every 15 minutes.
Cold Temperature Minimum
37 degrees if cooling and as hot as 107 degrees if warming
Colors Available
Grey with light grey accents
Tub Dimensions (External)
31.5″W x 72.75″L x 23.5″H
Tank Capacity in Gallons
155
Financing Available?
Yes.
Warranty?
There is a 1-year warranty on both the chiller/heater unit and the Yukon tub. There is also a 30-day return window during which The Yukon tub may be returned for a full refund.
Read our full review of The Yukon XL Tub
Product Pros
Product Cons
Best Starter Tub
BEST Starter Tub
Ice Barrel
We love the Ice Barrel because of its simplicity, durability, and compact design. It’s made of recycled plastics and comes with nearly everything you need. Just add ice.
Since the Ice Barrel doesn’t rely on electricity to reach the desired temperature, you’re free to place it anywhere. Just choose a location that will allow you to drain and refill the water as needed.
The Ice Barrel is quite large and fits many body types. They’re made in Ohio, USA, and shipping is much quicker than many manufacturers.
This is one of the most popular solutions out there for people starting to use ice baths at home. It’s the cheapest cold plunge tub by price.
We compared the different Ice Barrel models here.
Check out the review of the Ice Barrel 500!
Special for iRace – Get $100 off your Ice Barrel purchase with code: SIMPLY100
Cost
$1199.99 (Special for iRace – Get $100 off your Ice Barrel purchase plus free shipping with code: SIMPLY100).
Lid?
Included with your purchase are a lid and a protective UV cover. You also get a step stool so you can easily get in and out of this cold plunge barrel.
Cooling Process
User-supplied ice. It should take about 120 pounds of ice to get the water in the 40 to 45-degree temperature zone.
Filtration Method
Water stabilization tablets can be purchased and added to the tub to prolong water cleanliness for up to 4 weeks.
Cold Temperature Minimum
45-50 degrees
Colors Available
Black or Desert Tan
Tub Dimensions
Inside Tub: 25″W x 42″H
Total Footprint: 31″W x 42″H
Tank Capacity in Gallons
105
Financing Available?
Yes. 3, 6, and 12-month options are available.
Warranty?
Limited Lifetime Warranty. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Best Permanent Outside Tub
BEST Permanent Outside Tub
The Plunge
As seen on Shark Tank! This is a beautiful tub that can be kept either inside or outside. The price comes with a chiller and a spa cover making it a true plug-and-play tub.
The Plunge also includes a very cool internal light for when you desire to plunge in low-light conditions. It’s the perfect backyard cold plunge.
You pretty much have everything you need in this setup, which explains the excellent reviews from many users.
Cost
$4990
Lid?
Included with your purchase is an insulated spa cover to keep debris out. It has straps with clips that can be locked.
Cooling Process
1/4 HP chilling motor that will cool the water by approximately 2-4 degrees per hour depending on your location. The motor volume is approximately 53 decibels.
Filtration Method
Included is a robust filtration system that includes UV, Ozone, and a 5-micron filter. The manufacturer claims that with their maintenance pack you can have crystal-clear water for 6 months or longer.
Cold Temperature Minimum
39 degrees
Colors Available
White Acrylic
Tub Dimensions
Inside Tub: 31.5″W x 67″L x 24″H
Total Footprint: 43″W x 67″L x 28″H
Tank Capacity in Gallons
102
Financing Available?
Yes. 6, 12, or 36-month options are available.
Warranty?
1-year factory. 3 or 5 years of additional protection can be purchased. 30-day 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Best Large Permanent Tub
BEST Large Permanent Tub
Plunge pro XL
This is the big brother to our Best Permanent Outdoor pick. It’s perfect for larger individuals and comes with the Pro chilling motor that cools the water down 3X as fast.
The included filtration system keeps your water fresh for up to 6 months! Also, you can upgrade your tub with the Hot & Cold option to turn it into a hot tub at your leisure.
If you want to stretch out and relax in your cold plunge, get the Plunge Pro XL.
Cost
$6990
Lid?
Included with your purchase is an insulated spa cover to keep debris out. It has straps with clips that can be locked.
Cooling Process
1 HP chilling motor that will cool the water by approximately 6-8 degrees per hour depending on your location. The motor volume is approximately 61 decibels.
Filtration Method
Included is a robust filtration system that includes UV, Ozone, and a 5-micron filter. The manufacturer claims that with their maintenance pack you can have crystal-clear water for 6 months or longer.
Cold Temperature Minimum
39 degrees
Colors Available
White Acrylic
Tub Dimensions
Inside Tub: 32.5″W x 73″L x 27″H
Total Footprint: 46.75″W x 73″L x 30″H
Financing Available?
Yes. 6, 12, or 36-month options are available.
Warranty?
1-year factory. 3 or 5 years of additional protection can be purchased. 30-day 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Best Looking Cold Plunge Tub
BEST Looking Cold Plunge Tub
Odin Original Pro Ice Bath
This is one amazing tub. We love it for how it looks but it’s really amazing for the construction and internal components.
All Odin cold plunge tubs are handmade in Australia. Their attention to detail and skilled craftsmanship are easy to see. This “wooden cold plunge” is beautiful.
The Odin is insulated using the same insulation found in high-end cool rooms. This ensures minimal thermal losses leading to exceptional energy efficiency. The Odin also never suffers from condensation, even in high-humidity environments.
The cooling system gets the water down to the lowest cold temperatures we’ve seen, and the tub is very quiet.
Good looks, quality craftsmanship, superb filtration, and low noise. You won’t be disappointed with this Odin tub.
Special for iRace – Get $200 off your purchase of any Odin ice baths with code: IRACE
Cost
$8400.00 (Special for iRace – Get $200 off your purchase of any Odin tub with code: IRACE).
Lid?
Insulated lockable spa lid included with all Odin models.
Cooling Process
1/2 HP chilling motor that can cool the water down to 32 degrees. This motor can actually create ice when left on at low temps! This is meant to be kept on continuously and uses approximately the same electricity as a large household freezer. The noise output is about the same as your kitchen refrigerator.
Unlike some other manufacturers, the Odin uses a cooling compressor that is connected to copper coils wrapped around the inner stainless steel wall. This ensures that no cold is lost for cooling.
Filtration Method
Built-in ozone generator to sanitize and a pleated sediment filter to clean and keep the water crystal clear. A UV upgrade option is also available.
Cold Temperature Minimum
32 degrees. Brrrr.
Colors Available
Clear Western Red Cedar and Stainless Steel
Tub Dimensions
Interior – 47.3″L x 31.5″W x 24″H approx.
Exterior – 51.2″L x 51.2″W x 28″H approx.
Tank Capacity in Gallons
80
Financing Available?
Yes. 6, 12, and 18-month interest-free options are available.
Warranty?
5-year warranty on wood and stainless steel. 3-year warranty on the compressor, electrical, and plumbing.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Honorable Mention #1
Honorable Mention
BlueCube Mini-Me
The cold plunge BlueCube company makes tubs that are built like a boat. They have treated birch siding and use a boat varnish. These are built to last a decade with proper care.
The BlueCube cold plunge is built beautifully and is used by many celebrities and athletes.
Special for iRace – Get $500 off your purchase with code: IRACE
Cost
$15,999.99 (Special for iRace – Get $500 off your purchase with code: IRACE).
Lid?
Included with your purchase is a spa cover with a 25-year warranty.
Cooling Process
A 1/2 HP motor can cool the water down by approximately 11 degrees per hour.
Filtration Method
Blue Cube cold plunge uses a 20-micron filter and ozone filtering methods for a chemical-free filtration system
Cold Temperature Minimum
36 degrees
Colors Available
Treated birch siding. Hickory hardwood deck and trim. 14 gauge stainless steel tub.
Tub Dimensions
Inside Tub: 54″L x 24″W x 22″H
Total Footprint: 72″L x 34.25″W x 32″H
Financing Available?
Yes. 6, 12, or 36-month options are available.
Warranty?
5-year standard warranty. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee return policy, but you’ll be charged a 10% restocking fee plus the cost of return shipping.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Honorable Mention #2
Honorable Mention #2
The Edge Tub Legacy
The Edge Tub Legacy is the world’s first all-in-one, portable cold tub designed for health-conscious individuals on the go. In just 5 hours, it cools its water while its filtration and sanitation system keep it clean and ready for use anytime, anywhere.
Its sturdy, inflatable cold plunge design allows for permanent installation or portability with an easy 15-minute setup and takedown time. The Edge Tub is made with a material that becomes rock-hard upon inflation, similar to a Stand Up Paddleboard or commercial inflatable boat, making it incredibly sturdy and durable.
With the chilling motor conveniently connected to WiFi, you can control the Edge Tub through its smartphone app, including customizable programming to turn it on/off at preprogrammed times or lower or raise the water temperature on command. Take a cold plunge in the morning or after a race with ease!
This is a phenomenal cold plunge combination that offers everything you need in one package – portability, water temperature control, and sanitation – perfect for every health-conscious individual seeking a convenient and efficient solution for their relaxation needs.
Special for iRace – Get $150 off your Edge Tub Legacy purchase with code: IRACE
Cost
$4490.00 – Tub and Chiller
(Special for iRace – Get $150 off your Edge Tub purchase plus free shipping with code: IRACE).
Lid?
It comes with an insulated cover with childproof buckles, dual dual-action inflatable pump, and a carrying backpack.
Cooling Process
Ice or .8 HP chilling motor that will cool the water to approximately 5-8 degrees per hour depending on your location. The motor volume is approximately 52 decibels. This is a great motor that is 3x as powerful as many other tubs.
The motor is Wi-Fi enabled so you can remotely (via an app) chill or heat your tub so it’s ready when you get home.
Filtration Method
Enjoy effortless water maintenance with our innovative 2-step filtration system and chlorine-free sanitizer. Our 20-micron filter eliminates any unwanted impurities before they enter the unit, while our high-flow water pump guarantees complete water circulation every 15 minutes.
Maintaining your tub is a breeze! Simply add an oxidizer, test your sanitizer level once a week, and replace the filter every month (depending on usage). And the best part – your purchase includes a 4-month maintenance kit with 4 filters, an oxidizer bottle, and a sanitizer bottle. Need more maintenance supplies? No problem – you can easily purchase them through our website.
Cold Temperature Minimum
37 degrees if cooling with the chilling motor!
Colors Available
White with black accents. Blue interior of the tub.
Tub Dimensions
(External) 31.5″W x 53.15″L x 23.6″H
(Internal) 25.5″W x 45.5″L x 23.6″H
Tank Capacity in Gallons
80
Financing Available?
Yes.
Warranty?
There is a 1-year warranty on both The Chiller and The Edge Tub Legacy and their peripherals against manufacturing defects and other issues associated with normal product use. This warranty does not cover wear-and-tear or abuse of the product. There is also a 30-day return window during which The Edge Tub Legacy may be returned for a full refund (net return shipping costs) for any reason.
Read our full review of The Edge Tub Legacy
Product Pros
Product Cons
Benefits of a Cold Plunge
There are many benefits to a routine cold plunge, including:
1) Improved circulation
Ice cold water (cold therapy) energizes the autonomic nervous system, which is responsible for involuntary functions such as your heartbeat and breathing. Each exposure strengthens the autonomic nervous system, stabilizing blood pressure and improving circulation. It also helps to balance out sleep cycles and wake cycles. It can also improve the health of your blood vessels, which in turn might reduce high blood pressure.
2) Stronger Immune System
Cold therapy forces the body to release cytokines. According to the American Cancer Society, “Cytokines affect the growth of all blood cells and other cells that help the body’s immune and inflammation responses. They also help to boost anti-cancer activity by sending signals that can help make abnormal cells die and normal cells live longer.”
3) Reduced inflammation
Who hasn’t put ice on an aching body part? An ice bath will constrict blood vessels which helps reduce swelling and inflammation caused by muscle stress and injury. Cold water immersion also numbs the surrounding nerve endings and can help as a pain reliever.
Studies have shown that an increase in glutathione levels occurs after a dip in these cold plunge tubs. Glutathione is an antioxidant and is capable of preventing damage to important cellular components.
4) Muscle recovery
A cold plunge constricts blood vessels and flushes waste products such as lactic acid, away from affected tissue areas. This along with reducing swelling results in less tissue breakdown. Read about how ice baths can supercharge sore muscles.
5) Stress relief
Cold Plunges force a release of hormones into the body through the sympathetic nervous system. Studies have shown that this significantly improves mood and outlook. Depressed individuals report feeling a higher quality of life. Studies have shown that cold therapy is shown to be a short-term adjuvant treatment for mood and anxiety disorders.
6) Boost Metabolism
The “shock” of using cold plunge tubs immediately increases your heart rate, forcing your body will try to warm itself as quickly as possible. This in turn begins to increase your metabolism.
Can an Ice Bath Help Fight Cancer?
New research from the Yihai Cao research group at the Department of Microbiology, Tumor, and Cellbiology, MTC, shows that the so-called brown fat in the human body seems to be able to prevent cancer tumors from growing. The result is published by Nature and has been widely disseminated in the media lately.
MTC professor Yihai Cao and his research group have investigated what happens when cancerous mice are exposed to cold water therapy and cold temperatures for an extended period of time. It turns out that shocking their core body temperature caused their tumors to grow much more slowly. This effect is only seen in mice that have functioning brown adipose tissue. However, the researchers are not yet entirely sure how brown fat counteracts cancer.
That is very interesting and adds to the possible benefits of taking an ice bath!
Are There Risks Of A Cold Plunge?
While cold plunging has many benefits, those benefits do come with a certain level of discomfort. These include the risk of cold shock, hypothermia, and the uncomfortableness of cold water on the skin.
Cold plunges or ice baths should only be done if you are healthy and have no underlying medical conditions that could be exacerbated by cold water exposure. Be sure to consult with your doctor before cold plunging if you have any concerns. If you are healthy and decide to cold plunge, be sure to follow all safety guidelines to avoid any risks.
When used safely and correctly, ice baths can offer many benefits. Be sure to read our reviews of each product to find the best home cold plunge for your needs.
What Is the Best Time to Use a Cold Plunge?
Most people cold plunge after a workout, when they are already warm from exercise and their circulation is increased. This allows the cold water to have a greater effect on the body and can help to reduce inflammation and promote muscle recovery.
Cold plunge pools can also be used as a form of stress relief or migraine relief. If this is the goal, many users reported cold plunging first thing in the morning the optimum time, which starts your day off right and prepares you for anything.
Whatever you choose, be aware that you are generally more awake following a plunge, so avoid plunging later in the evening if you plan on sleeping soon thereafter.
How Long Should You Cold Plunge?
The duration of your cold plunge will depend on a number of factors, including how cold the water is, how long you’ve been exposed to the cold, and how your body responds to cold water immersion. In general, it’s best to start with shorter durations (1-2 minutes) and gradually work up to longer durations (4-5) as your body becomes more acclimated to the cold.
There are a few things to keep in mind when cold plunging:
- Don’t stay in the water for too long – if you start to feel uncomfortable, get out of the water.
- Breathe deeply and evenly – this will help your body relax and prevent hyperventilation. Practice Lamaze breathing to regulate your body at first.
- Use a timer – setting a timer will help you keep track of time and make sure you don’t stay in the water for too long.
After your cold plunge, it’s important to warm up slowly. Start with some gentle stretching and then move on to more active activities like walking or jogging. Don’t go from being completely cold to being completely hot – your body needs time to adjust gradually.
How Often to Use an Ice Bath?
This depends on your goals for the use. Athletes may opt to use the cold plunge following every hard workout. The intense cold water may help reduce inflammation and help speed recovery. This method is used frequently by NFL players following an intense practice.
Non-athletes may plunge every morning to reap the stress-relieving benefits. One comment often heard is that the cold water intensifies your focus and attention similar to a shot of espresso. This euphoric feeling is said to last long into the day.
Many athletes alternate time in a sauna immediately followed by a jump in an ice bath tub. This hot and cold routine has been used for many years with great results.
However, the contrast in temperatures can be drastic and should be used with caution by anyone attempting this method. Many participants mentioned that the extreme temperature difference itself is the benefit, but use common sense if undertaking such an adventure.
What Temperature Should You Cold Plunge?
The optimal cold plunge temperature of the water should be cold, but not so cold that it’s dangerous.
A cold shower is usually between 60 and 80 degrees. Leading experts recommend a cold plunge temperature anywhere between 45-55 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re just starting out, use a slightly warmer temperature and work your way down over time.
This advice seems to be universally recommended.
Who Should Buy a Home Ice Bath?
Anyone who is healthy and wants to cold plunge on a routine basis should consider buying a home ice bath. You can use it at any time, and you avoid paying costly usage fees at commercial locations.
Those with underlying medical conditions or who are pregnant should consult with their doctor before cold plunging. An ice bath can also be uncomfortable for some people, so it is important to know what you are getting into before taking the plunge. If you are healthy and decide to cold plunge, be sure to follow all safety guidelines to avoid any risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cold plunge good for?
A cold plunge can help improve circulation, relieve pain, and reduce inflammation. It can also help to speed up the healing process after an injury. Some people also believe that a cold plunge can help to boost the immune system and fight off infections.
How long should you cold plunge?
Most people find that 1-3 minutes is long enough for the initial cold plunge. You can increase the time up to 20 minutes as you get used to the sensation. Just use common sense and remember to warm up slowly afterward!
Is a cold plunge worth it?
Some people swear by the benefits, while others find the experience unbearable. If you’re thinking of trying a cold plunge, be sure to do your research and speak with a medical professional beforehand to ensure that it’s safe for you.
Do I need to consult with professionals before using a cold plunge?
If you have any concerns about using a cold plunge, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional beforehand. Ice baths can be beneficial for many different conditions and ailments, but there are also some potential risks associated with their use. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of using a cold plunge before making a decision.
Is cold water plunge good for you?
Yes, cold water plunges can offer several health benefits. These are improved circulation, reduced muscle soreness, boosted immune system, increased metabolism, enhanced mood and mental well-being, and improved recovery from workouts.
How long am I supposed to cold plunge?
The recommended duration for a cold plunge is typically between 2 to 5 minutes.
Conclusion
So there you have it. Whether you want a beautiful cold plunge tub for your back porch or a portable solution for on-the-road use, you know where to go.
If you feel we have missed one in our review, please let us know!
Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to me at no cost to you if you decide to purchase the product. This site is not intended to provide medical advice and you should always consult with a physician prior to beginning any physical activity.
