Brits Are Boiling This Weekend: Why Ice Baths Are Trending for a Whole Other Reason

As the UK prepares for a scorching weekend, many people will be looking for ways to cool down, from paddling pools, to ice lollies, to cold showers.

However, turning to an ice bath may be counterintuitive. While it might be tempting to plunge into freezing water to beat the heat, they are best used to reap other physical and mental benefits. 

Alex Lovén, MBE, Founder and MD of sports equipment platform Net World Sports, sheds light on the growing trend.

Why is cold plunging trending right now?

“Cold plunging aligns with multiple trends at once. Fitness, personal wellness, and resilience are all making waves right now, with people increasingly ditching the parties and hangovers and working on self-care. 

“We’ve also seen a shift in focus towards prioritising our mental health and self-discipline. Ice baths provide a physical and mental challenge simultaneously, making for a rewarding experience when we break through that wall.”

What are the main benefits of ice baths?

“From a recovery standpoint, cold water immersion helps reduce inflammation, eases sore muscles, and accelerates the healing process after intense exercise.

“When you train hard, you’re creating microtears in the muscle fibres. The cold helps those tears repair faster and with less pain.”

“But this icy immersion doesn’t just have physical benefits. They provide a real surge in feel-good brain chemicals, with studies showing that dopamine levels can increase by up to 250% after a plunge.

“That leaves you feeling more focused and energised, and unlike other stimulants, there’s no crash afterwards.”

When should you use an ice bath?

“If you’ve had a heavy gym session or an intense workout like a run, climb, or fitness class, a cold plunge can still play a powerful role in your recovery routine. Just not straight after. 

“Waiting at least 4-6 hours after a heavy workout is key before getting into an ice bath or alternatively using it the next day, as doing so will avoid hindering the muscle repair process and reduce soreness without interfering with growth. 

“On non-training days, I recommend doing it in the morning. Similarly to how splashing your face with cold water in the morning helps you to wake up, an ice bath gives you a burst of energy, allowing you to mentally reset and start your day off right. 

Do you need to build up to it?

“Yes, definitely ease yourself in. If you’re new to cold exposure, start with slightly warmer water and shorter time periods and gradually build up your tolerance. 

“Once you’re more comfortable, you can begin lowering the temperature and extending your sessions. 

“The lower temperatures and longer full-body immersion push your system further, intensifying the mental and physical effects. Just be sure to build up slowly and use it responsibly.”