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Health: what are the real benefits of ice water baths?
The ice water bath is a trending practice on social networks. The Wim Hof method, which combines ice baths with intense breathing exercises and meditation, makes many health promises. But what does science say about this method?
(France 2)
The ice water bath is a trending practice on social networks. The Wim Hof method, which combines ice baths with intense breathing exercises and meditation, makes many health promises. But what does science say about this method?
Plunging into a bath of ice water to feel better in your body and in your mind is a practice that is all the rage on social networks. The Wim Hof method consists of ice baths combined with intense breathing exercises and meditation. A method named after a Dutchman nicknamed “the Iceman”. He became known for his numerous cold endurance records.
Few serious studies on the Wim Hof method
With his method, Wim Hof makes many promises, such as improving his immune system and his sports performance. What does science say? There are few serious studies on the Wim Hof method, and their conclusions are very mixed. What emerges from these studies is that cold helps to soothe certain inflammations and muscle pain, particularly after exercise. On the other hand, as for the hyperventilation practiced by Wim Hof, which would reduce stress or sleep better, there is no proof that it really works. The practice can even be dangerous. Sports doctors therefore call for caution.
