Cold Plunge Overview: Everything You Need to Know About Cold Plunges
What are the advantages of buying a cold plunge?
One of the main advantages of a cold plunge is that it is always cold and always clean. Unlike other cold exposure methods, such as ice baths, you don't need to buy ice, wait for water to get to temperature, or drain the unit after every use. With a cold plunge, the water is maintained at a consistent temperature, and the filtration system ensures that the water is always clean and hygienic.
In addition to the time savings in not having to prepare and clean up after each use, the ease of maintenance is also a time saver. Cleaning the filters on a cold plunge is easy and simple. This is because many cold plunge manufacturers have designed their filtration systems to be user-friendly, with removable filters that can be easily cleaned and replaced.
By investing in a high-quality cold plunge, you can save time and streamline your cold exposure therapy routine. Instead of spending time preparing ice or waiting for water to get to temperature, you can simply step into the cold plunge and start your therapy immediately. This can be particularly beneficial for people with busy schedules who want to maximize their time and get the most out of their cold exposure therapy.
Why Cold Plunge Up to the Neck?
Cold plunging up to the neck, fully submersed in water, provides
a significantly higher dose of cold exposure that cold showers.
If you have the opportunity to cold plunge, see for yourself
the difference between submerging to your chin vs. to your shoulders. In
addition, explore the difference between having your arms in the water and
outside the water.
You will notice an increase in intensity from having your
neck and arms submerged.
Furthermore, you can experiment full dunking your head
underwater at the start and at the end of your cold plunge. This leads to
further adaptation / adjustments your body goes through during cold exposure.
Cold Plunge Types and Varieties
There are several cold plunges and variations you can purchase:
1. Cold Plunge Tubs: Cold plunge tubs are specifically designed for cold water immersion therapy. They are typically made of high-quality materials, such as stainless steel, and come in a variety of sizes. Some models have built-in filtration systems, which make it easy to maintain a consistent water temperature and keep the water clean.
Cold Plunge Tubs are self-contained units. You can fill them and drain them with a standard garden hose.
Not all cold plunge tubs are created equal. They range in quality from just above chest freezer to pinnacle cold exposure you will never outgrow.
Prior to purchasing a cold plunge tub consider the materials used for the build, is it built to spa industry standard (or are you pigeon hold into branded, mass imported parts), does it have high flow rate (to ensure sanitation and optimal cold dose), and what is the warranty, service, and maintenance schedule.
2. Cold Plunge Pools: Cold plunge pools are similar to cold plunge tubs, but they are larger and more permanent. They can be installed in a backyard, on a patio, or in a basement, and typically require professional installation. Cold plunge pools are ideal for people wanting a custom solution and plan on living in their home, running their business, for many years.
Cold plunge pools come with advantages and disadvantages. They can be completely customized and enlarged. However, building cold plunge pools is more costly (building a structure into your property).
With enlarged size cold plunge pools you will need more chilling power (electrical cost).
3. Cold Shower Systems: Cold shower systems are another popular option for people who want to practice cold exposure therapy at home. These systems can be installed in a standard shower and are designed to deliver cold water at a consistent temperature. Some models have adjustable settings, which allow users to customize the water temperature to their individual preferences.
4. Ice Baths: Ice baths are a simple and affordable way to practice cold exposure therapy. They can be made by filling a bathtub with cold water and adding ice.
Ice baths are a popular choice given how accessible ice and plastic tubs are. However, they do take time to set up and require significant amounts of ice that you will have to buy or produce yourself.
Why Should You Cold Plunge?
Cold plunging is nothing new—cultures around the world have leveraged cold exposure for thousands of years as part of ceremonies / protocols
for renewal. What has been missing is peer reviewed science highlighting the
enormous, multi-faceted benefits that cold plunging provides.
Below is a list of health benefits that research is beginning
to uncover. In addition, Youtube Videos / Articles that are highly educational
on cold plunging / cold exposure.
• Boost Your Immune System
• Improve Cardiovascular Health
• Mitigate Alzheimer's and Dementia
• Increase Testosterone
• Alleviate Arthritis
• Stabilize blood sugar (increase insulin sensitivity)
• Blast Through Anxiety
• Address Mental Health
• Contributes to Longevity
• Speed Recovery Times
• Reduce Inflammation
• Eliminate Depression
• Leverage feel good hormones
• Makes skin and hair look radiant
* Disclaimer: These claims are not approved by the FDA. You
are responsible for your own research.
Cold Plunging Resources and References that go
into depth on the subject:
Dr. Andrew Huberman on Cold Exposure
Huberman Podcast on Cold Plunging
What You Should Consider Before Purchasing a Cold Plunge
When shopping for a quality cold plunge, there are several important factors to consider. Here are the top 10 things customers should keep in mind when making their purchase:
Size and Capacity: The size and capacity of the cold plunge should be a top consideration. It's important to choose a size that will comfortably accommodate the number of people who will be using it, and ensure that the water volume is sufficient for a good cold plunge experience.
Material Quality: The material quality of the cold plunge is another important consideration. High-quality materials, such as stainless steel or wood, are recommended for their durability, resistance to corrosion, and hygienic properties.
Warranty: The warranty offered by the manufacturer is an important consideration. A good warranty will protect your investment and provide peace of mind in case of any defects or malfunctions. Some companies offer a standard 5-year warranty, while others may only offer a 1-year warranty. It's important to read the warranty carefully and understand what it covers, including any exclusions or limitations.
Installation: The ease of installation and setup is an important consideration, especially for cold plunge tubs or pools that require professional installation. It's important to choose a product that is easy to install and can be set up quickly.
Maintenance: The maintenance requirements of the cold plunge should also be considered. This may include regular cleaning, water treatment, and maintenance of any filtration or chilling systems. Some products may require more maintenance than others, so it's important to consider how much time and effort you are willing to put into maintenance before purchasing a cold plunge.
Customization Options: Some cold plunge manufacturers offer customization options that allow you to choose the size, shape, and features of your cold plunge to better suit your needs.
Energy Efficiency: For cold plunge tubs that use a heating or filtration system, it's important to consider the energy efficiency of the product. Look for products that are designed to be energy efficient and have a low impact on your utility bills.
Reviews and Ratings: Before making a purchase, it's a good idea to read reviews and ratings from other customers who have used the product. This can provide valuable insight into the quality, performance, and user experience of the product.
Customer Service: Finally, it's important to consider the quality of customer service provided by the manufacturer.
Look for companies that have a good reputation for responsive customer service and support, and who stand behind their products with warranties and guarantees. You want to make sure that the manufacturer is responsive to customer inquiries, has a good track record for addressing any problems that may arise, and has trained service technicians who can provide maintenance and repairs as needed.
It's also important to consider the quality of the materials used in the construction of the cold plunge.
Some manufacturers use high-quality materials that are built to last, while others may use lower-grade components that are more prone to breakage. In addition, some manufacturers may offer customization options that allow you to choose the size, shape, and features of your cold plunge to better suit your needs.
What Is Your Cold Plunge Made of?
When it comes to choosing the material for a cold plunge, there are several options available, including stainless steel, acrylic, fiberglass, and wood.
While each material has its own benefits and drawbacks, stainless steel and wood are often considered the best options for cold plunges.
Stainless Steel Cold Plunge Tubs:
Stainless steel is a popular choice for cold plunge tubs because it is durable, easy to clean, and resistant to corrosion. It also has a sleek and modern look that can complement a variety of home styles. Stainless steel tubs are often made with thicker materials, which can help to retain cold temperatures and provide a more consistent and longer-lasting cold plunge experience.
In addition to their durability and ease of maintenance, stainless steel tubs are also considered to be more hygienic than other materials. They are resistant to mold and mildew, and can be easily cleaned and disinfected.
Wooden Frame Cold Plunge Frames:
Wooden frames are also a popular choice for cold plunges because they offer a natural and aesthetic appeal that can enhance the overall cold plunge experience. Wooden frames are typically made of high-quality materials, such as cedar, and are often custom-built to fit the specific needs of the user.
In addition to their natural beauty, wooden frames are also known for their structural integrity and lack of vibrations. This can help to provide a more stable and calming cold plunge experience.
When choosing a wooden frame for a cold plunge, it's important to select a high-quality, water-resistant wood that can withstand exposure to cold water. Cedar and redwood are popular choices because they are naturally resistant to rot and decay, and have a pleasant aroma that can enhance the overall cold plunge experience.
Overall, while acrylic and fiberglass cold plunge tubs may be less expensive, stainless steel and wooden frame cold plunges are often considered to be the superior options for their durability, ease of maintenance, natural aesthetic appeal, and overall cold plunge experience. When choosing a cold plunge, it's important to evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of each material to find the best option for your needs and preferences.