Renowned for its myriad physical and mental health benefits, cold-water therapy gained momentum in the 1960s as a form of post-exercise recovery for top athletes. Now, ice baths have entered mainstream culture, and they're just as commonplace in the locker room as they are in A-list homes. Celebrities such as David Beckham, Harry Styles, and Courteney Cox are all firm advocates of the trend, often sharing their newfound morning routines on Instagram - and perhaps they're onto something.
Dr Mark Harper, anaesthetist, cold-water swimmer, and author of Chill: The Cold Water Swim Cure , reveals: “There’s a lot of evidence from clinical trials about outdoor swimming and dipping, but there’s very little on ice baths. There is preliminary evidence that regular cold-water bathing reduces inflammation, reduces the stress response, and has positive effects on mood and inflammatory-related conditions such as fibromyalgia, Crohn’s, and arthritis.” In news that is sure to delight cold-water novices, Dr Harper suggests that a tub filled with ice may not be strictly necessary.
According to the expert, “There is little to be gained from temperatures under 10°C. To get a good mental and physical effect, all that is required is water immersion that is less than 20°C.” Dr Harper advises beginners to start with warmer water and gradually work up to the ice bath experience.
“It’s best to begin with six immersions at temperatures between 10-20°C before attempting under 10°C,�.