WHY YOU SHOULD COLD PLUNGE AFTER RUNNING A MARATHON
After running a marathon, your body is in need of some serious recovery. Muscle soreness, fatigue, and swelling are all common after running such a long distance. While there are many different ways to help your body recover, one of the most effective is to take a Cold Plunge.
A Cold Plunge is exactly what it sounds like – you sit or lay in a tub or basin filled with ice cold water. While this may not sound like the most pleasant experience, it does have many benefits for your body. Here are some benefits of an ice bath after a marathon and and the science behind them. We will also touch on the benefits of an ice bath beyond just post-marathon recovery.
The Recovery
Cold Plunges have a number of benefits. They can help to relieve muscle pain, improve recovery time, reduce inflammation and improve circulation. A Cold Plunge is beneficial after a marathon due to its ability to reduce swelling, muscle soreness, and fatigue. The cold water works to constrict your blood vessels, which reduces inflammation and helps to reduce post-exercise swelling. The cold water also helps to reduce lactic acid buildup, which is a common cause of muscle soreness. Finally, taking an ice bath can also help to reduce overall fatigue. Multiple research studies indicate that subjecting the body to cold water and ice baths can raise the energy levels of the human body. This occurs through a phenomenon known as cold thermogenesis, in which the nerve endings in the skin are stimulated by the cold water. The stimulation leads to a surge in oxygen levels, heart rate, and respiration rate, ultimately boosting energy levels and alertness in the body while promoting better cardiac function.
The Science
Taking a cold plunge or subjecting the body to cold water can have several physiological effects on the body. The science behind the Cold Plunge is rooted in cold thermogenesis.
When the body is exposed to cold water, the nerve endings in the skin are stimulated. This triggers the release of certain hormones and neurotransmitters, such as adrenaline and norepinephrine, which help to increase heart rate and breathing rate. This process is part of the body's natural stress response, which can help to improve blood flow, oxygenation, and overall energy levels.
In addition, cold water exposure can also help to reduce inflammation in the body. It does this by triggering the release of certain anti-inflammatory cytokines, which can help to reduce pain and inflammation in the body. This may be especially beneficial for athletes or individuals with chronic pain or inflammation.
Finally, taking a cold plunge can also help to improve immune function. Research has shown that cold water exposure can help to increase the production of certain immune cells, such as white blood cells, which play an important role in fighting off infections and diseases.
Overall, the science behind taking a cold plunge suggests that it can have numerous positive effects on the body, including improving energy levels, reducing inflammation, and boosting immune function.
