Help Me Understand

243. Should you take the (cold) plunge? (Exploring the origins, science, and benefits of cold exposure)


Listen Later

Cold plunging has become one of the biggest wellness trends in recent years...but where did it come from, what's the science behind it, and is it worth your time?


In this episode, Coach JK breaks down the origins, the hype, and the practical takeaways so you know how to use this tool (or skip it) based on your goals.


We’ll cover the origin story of traditions that set the stage for today’s cold tubs, why the practice went mainstream during the pandemic, and what current research says about recovery, muscle growth, mood, metabolism, and even sleep.


You’ll also hear the key differences between cold showers, cold plunges, and ice baths; and how long you really need to stay in the water to see benefits.


What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • -The true origin story of cold water immersion

  • -When and how cold plunging hit the mainstream

  • -What the science says about recovery, soreness, and performance

  • -Why cold plunges right after lifting can blunt muscle growth

  • -How timing and duration affect results (and what the research recommends)

  • -Cold plunge vs cold shower vs ice bath...what’s the difference?

  • -Practical ways to use cold exposure for stress, sleep, or energy


  • This episode will help you cut through the noise, understand the nuance, and decide if (and how) to make cold exposure part of your routine.


    -------Connect with Coach JK

    Instagram: ⁠@CoachJKMcLeod⁠Email: [email protected]

    ...more
    View all episodesView all episodes
    Download on the App Store

    Help Me UnderstandBy JK McLeod

    • 4.9
    • 4.9
    • 4.9
    • 4.9
    • 4.9

    4.9

    47 ratings


    More shows like Help Me Understand

    View all
    Redefining Strength Podcast by Cori Lefkowith

    Redefining Strength Podcast

    291 Listeners

    The Daily by The New York Times

    The Daily

    112,238 Listeners

    The Genius Life by Max Lugavere

    The Genius Life

    4,886 Listeners

    The Jordan Syatt Podcast by Jordan Syatt

    The Jordan Syatt Podcast

    3,780 Listeners

    Dieting from the Inside Out by Jared Hamilton

    Dieting from the Inside Out

    374 Listeners

    I've Had It by Jennifer Welch and Angie Sullivan

    I've Had It

    17,862 Listeners

    The Macro Hour by Nikkiey Stott

    The Macro Hour

    586 Listeners

    Lifting, Running and Living with Kelly and JK by Kelly Lutz and JK McLeod

    Lifting, Running and Living with Kelly and JK

    8 Listeners