Fitness experts have revealed a major part of how footballer Cristiano Ronaldo stays in peak condition at 39 years old. Explaining the star's post-workout recovery technique, experts at Mirafit claim the Portuguese footballer uses 'cold water therapy'.
Cold water therapy, or cryotherapy, is the practice of using cold temperatures to cool tissue and muscles in the body. This may be through cold showers, immersing your body in cold water or taking an ice bath.
There is also the more advanced form of cold therapy - whole-body cryotherapy. This is the process of exposing the body to super-cold vapours in a cold chamber, which Ronaldo reportedly does each day.
According to the experts, cold water bathing is understood to date back to Ancient Greece. It has been hailed for centuries around the world for its 'healing' benefits.
They added: "In the modern day, world-renowned athletes often take ice baths after games of sport or competing in international competitions; as a way of soothing their bodies, aiding and speeding up the repair of muscles and ensuring they remain in their peak physical state."
Benefits of cold water therapy
Boost mood and can combat symptoms of depression and anxiety
Much like open-water swimming, exposing your body to cold temperatures can have great mood-boosting benefits, which can help alleviate symptoms of mental health issues. According to Mirafit: "The immediate response in the brain when immersing in cold water is to send a surge of endorphins, making you feel more alert and feel good."
Reduce muscle pain and stiffness
Cold water immersion straight after physical activity can help promote recovery by reducing inflammation and the breakdown of tissue in the body. The experts commented: "Immersing in cold water after exercising can help muscles relax by boosting circulation. This can help deter muscle soreness, fatigue, and stiffness, which can often otherwise occur after a strenuous workout."
May boost metabolism and immune system
Taking a cold shower or ice bath as part of your post-workout routine, may help increase your metabolism and boost your immune system. Studies have suggested that the use of cryotherapy can raise your metabolic rate after exposure to cold and that it can also increase the number of white blood cells, which protect you from illness.
Cold water therapy at home
If you're looking to get into cold water therapy, experts say one of the best ways to do it is by having your normal warm shower, but at the end, turn the water cold. Each shower, increase the time you are exposed to cold water.
If you're feeling particularly brave, you can have baths, but gradually decrease the temperature of the water over weeks until its stone-cold. This is generally safe, but anyone concerned should contact their health care provider for advice.
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