Benefits of Cold Water Immersion: Inflatable Plunge

You probably have already seen many celebrities doing cold plunge challenges on TikTok. Good news: This #coldplunge trend is not just a fad but is packed with science-backed benefits that go beyond the hype.

Back in Greek times, cold plunges were popular among athletes to improve endurance, discipline, and focus. Now, cold water immersion (CWI) is making a splash for its ability to help reduce muscle damage and fatigue after a high-impact workout. The best part? You can chill, too, without having an Olympic medal in sight.

However, knowing what you are getting into is safer than just giving in to your intrusive (cold) thoughts.

Let’s educate you about the benefits, proper techniques, and precautions of cold water immersion. Understanding these aspects will give you a sense of control and confidence during your first plunge.

Benefits of Cold Water Immersion

Cold plunges aren’t just for polar bears or elite athletes anymore. This practice is making universal waves among fitness enthusiasts thanks to its broad range of health benefits. Here's why you might also want to give it a try:

1. Mental Health and Stress Reduction

If you don’t want to start your day with stress, anxiety, or depression, you can watch ice-age, or a cold plunge may save your day.

Cold exposure, like nostalgia, can also activate the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and increase the production of endorphins and norepinephrine, chemicals that improve mood and reduce stress. The shock of cold water can induce a meditative-like state, promoting mental clarity and focus.

Research indicates that short-term immersion in cold water helps you feel more active, alert and inspired.

2. Improved Sleep

You might have heard of warm baths for insomnia or sleep disturbance, but cold water can also aid in better sleep. Cold exposure lowers the body's core temperature, which is conducive to better sleep. It also regulates the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for sleep-wake cycles.

3. Enhanced Immunity & Metabolism

After COVID-19 and with ongoing rumors of monkeypox, who doesn’t want to keep their immune system in check?

If you are willing to step up your immune care regime then regular cold exposure may help you increase the production of white blood cells. The shock of ice-cold water stimulates leukocytes, thus making the body more resistant to common illnesses.

Studies have also suggested that cold exposure can activate brown fat, which burns calories to generate heat, increasing overall energy expenditure and assisting in weight management. This process of metabolic activity is referred to as “thermogenesis,” in which you ramp up your metabolism without physical exertion.

4. Increased Resilience and Tolerance

A strong mind means a strong body, which is what fitness trainers refer to when powering through intense workouts. Mental strength is not required at gyms alone; it’s key for handling everyday challenges without losing your calm. Cold therapy can come in handy to attain this tolerance and perseverance.

Similarly to intermittent fasting and high-intensity workouts, cold exposure is also a form of hormetic stress. This is a mild stressor that stimulates adaptive responses in the body, helping it to become more resilient and better able to handle future stressors.

Cold plunges trigger physiological responses through cold receptors on our skin. In response to these triggers, our body releases endorphins (a natural pain reliever) and noradrenaline (a neurotransmitter responsible for a runner’s high), which thus help us train our minds to deal with the upcoming challenges of the day head-on.

5. Pain Relief and Management

Individuals with chronic pain or inflammatory conditions for ages are making use of cold therapy for instant relief. People suffering from conditions such as arthritis, runner’s knee, sprains, lower back pain and migraine can also benefit from cold plunges.

Cold water reduces inflammation and numbs pain by constricting blood vessels and decreasing nerve transmission, thus relieving pain. It also targets sore muscles after exercise and lactic acid buildup.

6. Improved Circulation

You might already have seen people doing cold water face immersions for that rosy, revitalized look.

Plunging into cold water gives your cardiovascular system a workout. It makes your heart pump faster, improves circulation, and delivers more oxygen and nutrients to your body parts. This leads to healthier skin, improved heart health, and increased energy levels.

Also, the alternation between cold and hot water encourages vasoconstriction and validation, which, according to studies, improves cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation over time.

Safety Precautions for Cold Plunges

More is good, but not in case of cold plunges. You need to start slowly from 15-20 degrees Celsius to build your tolerance and avoid the risk of hypothermia. Research shows that cold water drops body temperature 25 times faster than cold air, increasing the risk of extreme cold exposure, so it is better to be safe than sorry.

Also, don’t jump right in; instead, immerse your feet first and then work your way up to avoid any risks of cardiac arrest. If you have any heart condition or peripheral vascular disease, it is better to discuss it with your physician first and engage in this activity under supervision.

If you are going for at-home cold plunges, always do it while sober and opt for a plunge tub with a child safety latch and sanitization option to avoid any health hazards while saving water costs.

Choosing the Right Inflatable Plunge

Inflatable plunges are a great option if you don’t have access to swimming pools for cold plunges but contrary to popular opinion, not all inflatable tubs are created equal.

You can find many pocket-pleasing options on Amazon, but their construction and durability might not please you. So, investing in a durable inflatable plunge that is nicely welded with multiple layers of vinyl and foam for comfort and insulation is better.

Let’s give you a checklist to find the right plunge tub:

• Tub size according to your height is crucial. If you are a solo adventurer, go for a more space-friendly option for your backyard or patio.
• Look for durable materials that can handle weight and temperature alterations. You want something that'll last through multiple plunges.
• If you're in a warmer region, you might want an insulated plunge to keep that water chilly.
• Some plunges come with extras like safety covers, pumps, and even anti-slip mats. Consider what you need to make your experience the best.

One such option is the “Inflatable Plunge of Dynamic Cold Therapy.” You can inflate it within seconds, and it comes with a bag, enhancing its portability.

Few of the unmatched features of this inflatable pool are its military-grade, paddle board equivalent PVC material offering high resistance to punctures, abrasion and harsh conditions, can fit a 6’4 or taller person easily, has a lockable cover, is insulated, comes with a precise temperature control chiller (optional) and also has ozone sanitation.

If you are sold on the benefits of cold plunges, then this inflatable tub is your best bet through and through!