Researchers have conducted a comprehensive review to assess the health benefits of cold showers and ice baths, revealing insights applicable beyond athletes.
Researchers aimed to determine whether cold showers and ice baths have scientifically measurable positive effects on health and well-being. Led by Tara Cain from the University of South Australia, the study represents the most extensive review on this question to date. While cold water immersion has been well studied and utilized in sports contexts to aid athletic recovery, the effects on the general population remain less understood.
The analysis covered 11 studies published between 2014 and 2023, involving a total of 3,177 healthy adult participants. Ten of these studies focused on ice water immersion, while one examined the impact of cold showers. Interestingly, the research included findings from Australia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Japan, the United States, and Finland. The studies were selected for inclusion only if participants were immersed in water up to the chest level or higher, with water temperatures ranging from 7 °C to 15 °C.
These findings have implications for both athletes and everyday individuals, suggesting that practices traditionally associated with professional sports may have benefits for a broader audience. The need for more extensive research on the general public's response to such cold water exposure is underscored, especially as these practices gain popularity in wellness culture.
