Running ice bath?

Question

After what distance of running would you recomend an ice bath?

Answer 1

Its not a matter taking one at a certain distance. You take ice baths to get rid of the pent up soreness in your legs. They are especially helpful after a hard week of practices or when youve hurt a muscle

Answer 2

Never, you should allow your body to cool down naturally and not put your heart and organs in shock while your heart rate is already elavated by stepping into an ice cold bath.

Answer 3

I don't think it really matters at what distance.  If your legs are sore, that's a good time.  Your recovery time will be quicker, and will reduce inflamation and soreness.

Hints: bring a sweater and a magazine with you when you do and ice bath (get a bucket of ice as well).  Sit in the tub, put your sweater on,  run the water lukewarm till its a few inches deep, then turn off the hot water, just use cold water, run water till legs are covered.  Sit for 5 minutes, till your used to it, then add the ice and sit for 15-20 minutes.  Read your magazine to help take your mind off the cold.

You'll come out with legs feeling refreshed and ready to go again.

I've done it when training for marathons (usually about 30K+, every runner is different though).  You can do this in a cold river as well.

Answer 4

56,000 miles

Answer 5

I took one two nights ago. It was exhilarating :)

Just start off taking a luke warm shower, and then gradually move the dial to colder & colder until you get it to the temperature you want it to be at. I didn't run though. I just took some deep breaths to get used to the water. It felt better than I expected. Then once you are used to your cold shower, start filling up the bathtub. Breathe and sit still. The good part is when you get out and move up out of the water - REALLY cold.