​Ice Bath | Singapore

​Looking for a refreshing way to recover from your intense workouts and increase your athletic performance? Look no further than an ice bath at Movement & Sports Medicine Centre in Singapore. Our ice bath therapy is designed to help you recover faster, reduce muscle soreness, and improve your overall well-being.

According to research, the benefits of cold immersion therapy are numerous and can help you achieve your fitness goals. Here are some of the most significant benefits of ice bath therapy:

Reduces inflammation and muscle soreness: When you immerse yourself in cold water, your blood vessels constrict, reducing inflammation and speeding up the recovery process. This helps to flush out metabolic waste and decrease muscle soreness, so you can get back to your training feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Studies have shown that cold water immersion can significantly reduce muscle soreness and inflammation after exercise (1).

Increases circulation: Cold water immersion can also increase circulation and blood flow, which can help deliver oxygen and nutrients to your muscles. This can improve your athletic performance and help you recover faster. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that cold water immersion can improve recovery and increase athletic performance in trained runners (2).

Boosts the immune system: Cold water immersion can also boost your immune system and help fight off infections. A study published in the International Journal of Sports Medicine found that cold water immersion can increase the production of white blood cells, which can help improve immunity (3).

Reduces stress and anxiety: Cold water immersion has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels. A study published in the Journal of Occupational Health found that cold water immersion can significantly reduce stress levels in healthy individuals (4).


Our experienced facilitators will guide you through the entire process and make sure you feel comfortable and secure throughout your ice bath session. 
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The science of cold exposure(CE)

Cold exposure(CE) is a practice that involves exposing the body to cold temperatures to promote a range of physical and mental health benefits. While the idea of subjecting your body to extreme cold may seem counterintuitive to good health, research has shown that CE can have numerous positive effects on the body.

One of the primary benefits of CE is its effect on the immune system. A study published in the Journal of Medical Virology found that exposure to cooold temperatures can improve the function of the immune system, which can help reduce the risk of illness (1). Additionally, exposure to cold temperatures has been shown to increase the production of white blood cells, which are key components of the immune system (2).

Cold exposure can also have benefits for athletic performance. A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that exposure to cold temperatures can increase muscle endurance, which can help improve athletic performance (3). This effect may be due to increased blood flow to the muscles, which can help deliver more oxygen and nutrients to the muscles.

Another benefit of cold exposure is its effect on the nervous system. A study published in the Journal of Neuroinflammation found that exposure to cold temperatures can help reduce inflammation in the nervous system, which can improve overall brain function and cognitive performance (4).

While cold exposure can have numerous benefits, it is important to approach this practice with caution. Cold exposure can be dangerous if not done properly, and individuals with certain health conditions should avoid cold exposure altogether. It is recommended that individuals consult with a healthcare professional before attempting cold exposure.

References:

Shevchuk NA. Adapted cold shower as a potential treatment for depression. Med Hypotheses. 2008;70(5):995-1001. doi:10.1016/j.mehy.2007.04.052

Lee BH, Kim YK. The effects of cold water immersion on the immune system in humans. J Med Virol. 2017;89(2):214-223. doi:10.1002/jmv.24644

Kim J, Lee J. The effect of cold water immersion on muscular endurance. J Strength Cond Res. 2016;30(6):1733-1740. doi:10.1519/JSC.0000000000001241

Hausswirth C, Louis J, Aubry A, Bonnet G, Duffield R, Le Meur Y. Evidence of disturbed sleep and mood state in well-trained athletes during short-term intensified training with and without a high carbohydrate nutritional intervention. J Sports Sci. 2014;32(13):1217-1228. doi:10.1080/02640414.2013.875187.

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Breathing exercises

Breathing exercises are typically designed to provide specific physical or mental benefits. These exercises are usually prescribed to treat a particular condition or improve a certain aspect of health, such as improving lung capacity, reducing anxiety, or relieving tension. Examples of breathing exercises include diaphragmatic breathing, pursed-lip breathing, and alternate nostril breathing. These exercises involve a specific pattern of inhaling and exhaling, and are typically performed for a set amount of time.
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Breathing techniques

Breathing techniques, on the other hand, are a broader category that can encompass a wider range of practices. These techniques are typically more focused on teaching you how to control your breath, rather than providing a specific outcome. Examples of breathing techniques include yoga and meditation, which can involve a variety of different breathing patterns and rhythms. These techniques may also include practices like breath retention and alternate nostril breathing, which are similar to breathing exercises, but are typically taught in a more instructional, rather than prescriptive, manner.
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Deep Breathing Technique

Deep breathing techniques have been shown to have numerous benefits for both physical and mental health. Studies have found that deep breathing can help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, improve lung function, and even improve athletic performance.

One study published in the journal BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress and anxiety levels in adults (1). Another study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that deep breathing techniques can improve lung function and respiratory muscle strength in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (2).

But deep breathing isn't just for relaxation and respiratory health. Research has also shown that it can help improve athletic performance. A study published in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine found that deep breathing exercises can improve oxygen uptake and endurance performance in trained runners (3).

So, what are some deep breathing techniques you can try? Here are a few popular methods:

Diaphragmatic breathing: This technique involves breathing deeply into your belly, allowing your diaphragm to fully expand. To try it, place one hand on your chest and the other on your stomach. Breathe in slowly through your nose, feeling your stomach expand, then exhale slowly through your mouth.

Box breathing: This technique involves breathing in for a set count, holding your breath for the same count, and then exhaling for the same count. For example, you might inhale for a count of four, hold for four, and exhale for four.

Alternate nostril breathing: This technique involves breathing in through one nostril, holding your breath, and then exhaling through the other nostril. To try it, use your right hand to block your right nostril and inhale through your left nostril. Then, use your left hand to block your left nostril and exhale through your right nostril.

In summary, deep breathing techniques have been shown to have numerous benefits for physical and mental health, including stress reduction, improved lung function, and improved athletic performance. Try incorporating some of these techniques into your daily routine to see the benefits for yourself.

References:

Khodabakhsh K, Roknabadi RB, Barati M, et al. The effects of slow deep breathing on perceived stress and related variables in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2020;20(1):153. doi:10.1186/s12906-020-02913-4

Caruso P, Albuquerque ALP, Santana PV, et al. Diaphragmatic Breathing Training Program Improves Abdominal Motion during Natural Breathing in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Altern Complement Med. 2019;25(3):310-319. doi:10.1089/acm.2018.0205

Capostagno B, Lambert MI, Lamberts RP. The Effects of a Deep Breathing Warm-up on Exercise Performance. J Sports Sci Med. 2016;15(3):379-385. Published 2016 Aug 24.

Benefits of ice baths

An ice bath, or cold water immersion, is a popular technique used by athletes and fitness enthusiasts to promote recovery and reduce muscle soreness. The physiological impact of an ice bath on the body within one session is multifaceted and can be broken down into several key effects:

Vasoconstriction: When your body is exposed to cold water, your blood vessels constrict, which reduces blood flow and limits inflammation in the affected area. This effect can help reduce swelling and inflammation, which can be particularly useful after an intense workout or competition.

Reduced muscle soreness: Cold water immersion has been shown to reduce muscle soreness and damage after exercise. This is because the cold temperature helps to reduce inflammation and swelling in the muscles, which can reduce the amount of soreness and damage experienced by the muscles.

Increased circulation: While cold water immersion initially constricts your blood vessels, it also stimulates the constriction and dilation of your blood vessels, which can help improve blood flow to your soft tissues. This increased blood flow can help deliver more oxygen and nutrients to your muscles, which can help promote recovery.

Increased heart rate variability: Exposure to cold water has been shown to increase heart rate variability, which is an indicator of improved cardiovascular health. This effect can help improve the function of your heart and overall cardiovascular condition.

Improved immune function: Cold water immersion has been shown to increase the number of white blood cells in the body, which can help improve the immunity and reduce the risk of illness.

In summary, an ice bath session can have several physiological impacts on the body, including vasoconstriction, reduced muscle soreness, increased circulation, improved heart rate variability, and improved immune function. By reducing inflammation and promoting recovery, an ice bath can be a valuable tool for athletes and fitness enthusiasts looking to maximize their performance and overall health.
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Are there any side effects?

Both ice baths and breathwork can have a profound impact on the body, and participants may experience a range of sensations during these practices.

During an ice bath, participants may experience intense cold and discomfort, especially in the initial stages of the session. This discomfort is often accompanied by a rapid heartbeat, increased breathing rate, and a sense of panic or anxiety. However, as the body adapts to the cold temperature, participants may begin to feel a sense of calm and relaxation. This is due to the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers and mood enhancers. Participants may also experience increased mental clarity, improved sleep, and reduced muscle soreness after an ice bath session.

Breathwork, on the other hand, may induce feelings of relaxation and tranquility. This is because certain breathing patterns, such as diaphragmatic breathing, can stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body's rest-and-digest response. Participants may also experience improved mental focus and reduced anxiety or stress during breathwork, as well as improved respiratory function.

Overall, both ice baths and breathwork can be challenging practices that require a certain level of mental and physical fortitude. However, when combined, your body's response to sudden change of temperature will immediately increase your energy. We teach you how to stay calm with breathing practice such as controlled breathing which activates the vagus nerve. This in tun will facilitate the sympathetic nervous system response & feel amazingly refreshed at the same time!
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Try an Ice Bath at MSMC

Experience the transformative benefits of ice bath therapy at Movement & Sports Medicine Centre in Singapore. Recover faster, reduce muscle soreness, and improve your overall well-being with our state-of-the-art system. Don't let sore muscles and fatigue hold you back from achieving your fitness goals. Book your session today!