What is the mechanism? Have you heard it explained? I can tell you that contrast showers are very stressful, and additional stress is not good for recovery.
Hey Rip, I searched the forum and didn't see this discussed.
What do you think of cold therapy for recovery: cold showers and now this new fad/trend of cryotherapy?
I live in NH so our water can reach temp of 50's. I did -283 in cryo chamber for 3 mins, but water (shower or ocean) is more challenging mentally. But does it contribute to recovery?
Thanks Coach.
Greg
What is the mechanism? Have you heard it explained? I can tell you that contrast showers are very stressful, and additional stress is not good for recovery.
I've heard this: the cold constricts the blood vessels; when they warm, increased circulation flushes lactic acid out - promoting recovery.
I take cold showers because it helps me deal with cold, making New England winters easier to cope. Never did it for training.
Cryotherapy tanks are popular in NFL now. But so aren't bosu balls and Smith Machines.
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The linked article seems to conclude that deliberate cooling can help with soreness. If blood flow helps with soreness, whatever the mechanism, wouldn't it make as much sense to just stay warm?
Greg, where are you in NH? I live in southern Maine, right across from Portsmouth.
If all else fails cold water immersion probably has a fantastic placebo effect.
That's my thinking. When I'm sore, cramping, or stiff, I'd much rather visit a hot tub than a cold anything; especially at my age, the cold will do nothing but really aggravate my arthritis, old injuries and especially my occipital neuralgia (something I don't wish on anyone).