They’re favoured by professional rugby players, Olympic sprinters, and trophy-wielding tennis players. Touted as a game-changer for recovery, ice baths are a much-loved treatment both in New Zealand and abroad.
But what exactly is the appeal of plunging into an ice-cold bath after an intense training session or gruelling game?
If you’ve heard about the icy wonders of these post-exercise rituals and want to learn more, Gaia Wellness and Recovery, Tauranga’s holistic health haven, has you covered.
Let’s dive in.
A brief history of ice baths
The popularity of ice baths in New Zealand may seem like a modern trend, but their roots run deep. They evolved from an ancient practice into a scientifically-backed tool that helps reduce muscle soreness, speed up recovery, and enhance wellbeing.
The Greeks – including the ‘Father of Medicine’ himself, Hippocrates – recognised the healing potential of cold water and used it for revitalisation and muscle relief.
Ancient Romans incorporated cold water in their bathhouses, and hydrotherapy re-emerged in the Renaissance when cold water immersion was used for pain relief.
Spartans are believed to have soothed sore muscles by bathing in cold rivers, while historical records hint that Samurais used ice baths for discipline and mental strength.
Once a relic of the past, ice baths have now made a comeback and they continue to gain popularity, endorsed by elite athletes and wellness enthusiasts alike.
Exploring the science of ice baths
Athletes say ice baths are all about faster recovery and enhanced performance – and it’s not just anecdotal evidence.
Keen to understand the science behind the chills, researchers have studied the phenomenon and discovered that the icy waters of an ice bath promote recovery by reducing muscle damage and inflammation.
The cold temperatures constrict blood vessels, flushing out waste products and toxins, while rewarming the body afterwards promotes improved circulation and healing. They also found ice baths alleviate pain and improve sleep quality.
The healing trio of ice baths, infrared saunas, and red light therapy
Ice baths are just one piece of the puzzle. In the pursuit of performance and holistic health, athletes are turning to a trio of potent therapies: ice baths, infrared saunas, and red light therapy.
While ice baths work their magic through the power of cold, infrared saunas rely on heat to loosen tight muscles, flush out toxins, and promote relaxation. The combination of heat and infrared rays in the sauna with the healing shock of an ice bath work together, completely revitalising the body and mind.
Along with infrared saunas and ice baths, athletes have discovered red light therapy – a non-invasive treatment where the wavelengths of red light stimulate cellular repair and vitality, reduce pain, and stress.
Bringing Contrast Therapy and Red Light Therapy to Tauranga, New Zealand
If hearing about the post-match rituals of famous sports teams has you wishing and wondering – good news! The rejuvenating therapies that were once reserved for elite athletes are now accessible to all.
Located in Papamoa, Gaia Recovery and Wellness brings Contrast Therapy and Red Light Therapy to Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty. You can now experience the same revitalising treatments that athletes swear by, right here in your own community.
Book your appointment today and discover the healing potential of a relaxing infrared sauna and invigorating ice bath.
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