Icy trend
Are ice baths healthy or crazy?
Good news for all pool owners:
The ORIGINAL counter-current systems from BINDER are winter-proof – so you can enjoy the benefits of winter swimming in your own pool.
Ice bathing is all the rage – an increasing number of people are venturing into ice-cold water in frosty temperatures, be it in a lake, river or their own pool. Cold bathing enthusiasts swear by the numerous health benefits: a strengthened immune system, improved circulation, and even increased fat burning.
However, the alleged immune-boosting effect has yet to be scientifically proven: while some studies suggest positive health effects, placebo effects are also conceivable. In addition, ice baths are not suitable for everyone – people with pre-existing medical conditions should seek medical advice before getting into cold water.
However, if you are healthy and slowly getting used to the cold, you can try winter swimming as an exciting challenge and health-promoting leisure activity.
Health benefits of ice baths
- Immune system: Regular exposure to the cold can stimulate the immune system and strengthen the body's defences, potentially reducing susceptibility to colds and inflammatory reactions.
- Cardiovascular system: The cold stimulus leads to better circulation due to the constriction and subsequent dilation of the vessels.
- Metabolism: Ice baths can promote the conversion of white fat tissue into brown fat tissue, thereby increasing energy consumption and reducing the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease in the long term.
- Mental health: The cold causes a release of endorphins and adrenaline, lifts the mood and increases stress tolerance.
Initial studies appear to support the claim that cold bathing can actually help against colds: cold-water swimmers reported fewer respiratory infections than their non-swimming partners. However, the same effect was also seen in those swimming in pools with warmer temperatures. It also showed that cold water can boost the immune system in the short term, but if you overdo it and are constantly shivering, you risk the opposite: more infections and more severe symptoms. With this in mind, it’s important to find the right balance and get enough rest.
Important to know: The data is based on self-reporting from participants, who generally believe in the positive effects and may underestimate or not fully report cold symptoms.
Important tips for beginners and experienced ice bathers
These brief tips will make ice baths safer and more enjoyable.
Stay alert and enjoy the stimulating experience – even in your own garden!
Good preparation
- Acclimatise slowly: Start taking regular outdoor baths in the summer and increase your exposure to the cold throughout the autumn and into the winter.
- Train with alternating showers: Cold showers help acclimatise the body to low temperatures.
Safety first
- Never go into the water alone: Always bathe with at least one other person to ensure assistance in the event of unexpected reactions such as cold shock.
- Choose a suitable bathing spot: Ensure safe access with good entry and exit; ideally you should also be able to stand in your chosen spot. Avoid rivers during flooding and steer clear of strong currents.
- Enter the water slowly: Avoid jumping in; get into the water in a controlled manner to acclimatise your body to the temperature.
Correct behaviour in the water
- Control your bathing time: As a rule of thumb, you should stay in the water for a number of minutes equal to the water temperature in degrees Celsius (e.g. five minutes at five degrees), a few seconds are enough for beginners.
- Protect your extremities: Hands and feet cool down quickly – neoprene socks, gloves, and a hat help to minimise heat loss.
Warm up quickly after bathing
- Put on warm clothes immediately: Put on warm clothing and have a hot drink as soon as you leave the water.
- Additional equipment: A second towel for your feet can help to prevent chilling.
Try it yourself?
Have you become curious and would like to test the turbine-driven counter-current systems for yourself?
No problem: You can try out HydroStar and EasyStar in our showroom in Frankfurt a.M. during a trial swim without obligation!
Book your personal appointment right here. The BINDER team looks forward to your visit!
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