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For those of you who have done any hydrotherapy like a cold plunge, I am sure you are aware of the benefits. There are not many things that make you feel better or recover faster from a hard training session than a cold plunge. It can be a bit shocking the first time you hop into 50 degree water but after doing it a few times, you begin to actually crave it!
There is a problem though. How many of your homes or the gyms you train at have a cold plunge ready? Yes, you could fill up your bath with some ice and water. But that can be a hassle. And if you want to incorporate a Hot/Cold contrast (going back and forth from cold water to hot water), you would have to drain and refill the tub over and over. Not happening!
So the logical solution would be the shower. Now, I have experienced both hot/cold plunging and hot/cold showers and there is no doubt that the plunge is better. But there are absolutely great benefits from the shower. If you have not done this, definitely give it a try.
Begin with hot water for 2 minutes and cold water for about 30 seconds. After a few times of trying this, increase the time you are in the cold water. I prefer to go 1 minute hot and 1-3 minute cold. A trick that I do is to make the hot water fairly uncomfortable (very, very warm!!).......this makes the cold feel more refreshing and tolerable.
This is a part of my weekly recovery strategies. Give it a try. I think you will be surprised at how much you will actually start to like it.
DN
