Ice baths, cold plunges, and deliberate cold exposure are trending as wellness practices. While touted for various health benefits, from improved mood to reduced inflammation, experts caution that individual responses vary, and the practice might not be suitable for everyone. This article explores the potential benefits and drawbacks of ice baths, highlighting different perspectives from practitioners, researchers, and personal experiences.
On Friday, extreme athlete Andre Belibi from Switzerland shattered the Guinness World Record for the longest time spent submerged in an ice bath. At the Calgary Marathon Runner’s Expo in Stampede Park, Belibi endured the freezing conditions for an astonishing four hours and six minutes, surpassing the previous record of four hours and two minutes. The athlete underwent rigorous training for over two years to prepare for this challenge, emphasizing the importance of mental resilience and controlled breathing. Belibi employed a strategy of breaking the ordeal down into smaller milestones, focusing on one hour or 30 minutes at a time. To ensure his well-being, an EMS team closely monitored his vital signs throughout the attempt.
