It’s no surprise that ice baths continue to surge in popularity – with so many benefits coming from this natural form of therapy, a quick dip in an ice bath can be just the wellness tool you need. If you haven’t spent time in an ice bath before, however, it’s important to pay attention to the safety tips that can set you up for cold water therapy success. 

Whether you’re stepping into an ice bath to reduce muscle soreness or boost mental abilities, here’s what you need to know to make the most of your beginner ice bath experience.

Start with short and sweet ice bath dips

Especially for beginners, a short and sweet ice bath session is the best way to understand the impact of cold water immersion on your body. We recommend starting with sessions that run for three to five minutes. 

This gives your body a chance to give you feedback, as well as activating the benefits that come with a dip in the ice bath. It’s the best of both worlds – and you’re not risking overstaying your body’s welcome in these chilly temperatures.

Pay attention to your body

As you get more familiar with the ice bath experience, you’ll notice that your body sends clear signals when it’s time to get out of the water. Pay attention to:

• Intense shivering that doesn’t go away
• Increasing numbness in your hands or feet
• Any sense of dizziness or light-headedness
• Confusion

If one of these signs starts to occur, step out of the ice bath and begin to warm up. It’s much safer to go slow and steady than to over-expose yourself to ongoing cold temperatures, particularly when it’s a new sensation.

Frequency matters

Another common question ice bath beginners have is how often they should take the plunge. For most people, two to three sessions per week is the sweet spot, delivering ongoing natural benefits without overwhelming the nervous system.

Key tips for ice bath beginners

You’re ready for your first session and eager to take the plunge – what else do you need to know about ice baths when you’re a beginner?

• Check with your GP if you have any cardiovascular issues, asthma, or other health conditions before your first session
• Avoid alcohol before and after your ice bath  – it can have a negative impact on your body’s ability to regulate heat
• Keep your head above water, especially if you’re a beginner
• Don’t jump into a hot shower straight after, allowing your body to warm up gradually instead

Conclusion

Ice baths can be daunting when you’re getting used to this form of cold water therapy, but with so many health benefits on offer, they’re well worth the plunge. Regular sessions are a powerful way to invest in your health and wellness through an entirely natural form of therapy, and with ReGen Wellness’ session packages, you can make this an effortless part of your weekly routine.

Pay close attention to these useful ice bath beginner tips and get ready to step into the ice – you’ll be amazed at how your body feels on the other side, with rewards for both your physical and mental health on offer!