Although they may sound unpleasant, and don't inspire the same feelings of warmth and coziness as a home sauna, there's a reason cold plunges have been making headlines across the internet: they offer real health benefits that go beyond what a simple cold shower can provide. Their popularity as a viral sensation has thrown them into the limelight, but athletes have in fact been using cold plunges as a vital recovery tool for years. Cold plunge tubs comes in a range of shapes and sizes, with many different features, so it's important to do your research before making your purchase.
And as with almost anything you buy online, subscribing to Mulberry Unlimited can help ensure it's protected. If you're worried about your cold plunge tub cracking, tearing, breaking, or getting damaged in any way, a product protection plan makes sure you're covered no matter what, so you aren't left on the hook for expensive repair or replacement costs.
A cold plunge, also known as cold water therapy, is the practice of immersing yourself in cold water, often for health benefits. Cold plunge temperature ranges vary, but many studies say that water between 40 and 59 degrees Fahrenheit provides the most optimal health benefits. If you're wondering how long to cold plunge for, it's recommended you don't remain in the water for longer than 15 minutes when you're first starting out, so you can give your body a chance to adjust to the cold.
Cold plunging is primarily done in a cold plunge tub, but if you'd rather do a DIY cold plunge, really anywhere with cold water can be used. Most people appreciate using a tub because it can be done right in your home, but as long as you have a cold body of water that falls within the temperature ranges described, you can achieve the cold plunge benefits.
Let's take a look at some of the benefits of a cold plunge, so you can decide whether it's a worthwhile option for you.
Increased recovery
This is one of the biggest benefits to a cold plunge. Whether you're an elite athlete or a weekend warrior, a cold plunge after exercise can help reduce muscle soreness and inflammation, boost immunity, and aid with recovery time. It's a great way to cap off an awesome workout while also preparing to feel ready for the next one.
Lower stress and enhanced mood
Cold plunges can help increase dopamine concentrations in the body, which will leave you feeling happy and in a better mental state. It can also increase your alertness throughout the day.
A cold plunge helps with stress by lowering your body's cortisol levels. Less stress can have benefits throughout your day-to-day life, and help your body function better overall.
Improve circulation
Another great benefit of a cold plunge is that is it helps to improve circulation and increase oxygen levels in the muscles that are submerged. A cold plunge really helps the cardiovascular system, and increasing your circulation is a big part of that.
Although a cold plunge can help reduce stress overall, the act of cold plunging itself sends your body into fight or flight mode, which can cause a rise in blood pressure, heart rate, and general cardiovascular dysfunction. There's also the potential for hypothermia because you're submerging yourself in such cold water.
It's important to listen to your body when you're cold plunging, and get out of the water if you're worried there might be a problem.
Whether you're shopping for a cold plunge tub or just shopping in general, subscribe to Mulberry Unlimited for coverage on nearly all your online purchases under the same product protection plan. You'll be covered in case of damage, accidents, and more, for the ultimate peace of mind.