The benefits of a cold bath or shower have been talked about for some time. So much so that cold baths have been utilized dating back millennia. But while many of us in the present day love the idea of a steaming hot bath, previously cold baths were valued more highly – since chilling water was far more difficult than heating it.
Of course, we’ve all heard of ice baths and their benefit to elite athletes, but could a cold bath or shoulder support your bodybuilding goals?
We’ve done the digging, and here are three reasons why taking a cold shower could benefit your mission for muscle growth and fitness.
1. A cold shower can boost your metabolism
Who knew that the cold could have such an effect on your metabolism? But yes, the rumors are true. If you haven’t heard about this before now, you’ve been seriously missing out.
The cold boosts metabolism by burning fat for heat. If you were to dunk yourself in a cold bath, your body would look to burn fat in order to keep your body warm (ish) – this is known as thermogenesis.
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In order to maintain homeostasis, fat burning increases dramatically. According to studies, the submersion in 14°C can increase metabolic rate by 350%. Plus, both bathing and showering in cold water has been shown to stimulate brown adipose tissue (BAT), otherwise known as brown fat. While this may sound bad, brown fat actually plays an important role in the conversion of fat to heat.
2. The cold can boost your testosterone levels
Research has revealed links between a cold shower/bath and high testosterone levels. By now, you’ll be well aware of the role testosterone plays in helping you build muscle, cut fat and perform in the gym.
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But can the cold really boost your testosterone? Apparently so. Studies have shown that the testes work at their best in colder temperatures. Since a cold shower or bath has the ability to reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) – which can have a negative impact on your testosterone production – cutting down on this hormone can help boost your T levels.
Plus, while cutting back on cortisol, it can also help engage the parasympathetic nervous system – which supports a decent night’s sleep.
3. An incredible way to start the day
It doesn’t quite seem right that a cold shower can help you both sleep better and wake up… But it’s true. If you struggle to get going in the morning, a cold shower could be just what you need to wake up your body.
Not only does it stimulate the release of anti-depressant endorphins (helping you start the day in a good mood), but it also boosts blood flow, activated the nervous system and spikes your heart rate and metabolism.
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While nobody fancies a 20 minute cold shower first thing, a quick five minutes will certainly benefit your mind and body.
What else can you do to support your gains?
Aside from a cold shower to get your metabolism going, there are a variety of things you can do to support your workout and bodybuilding efforts:
- Stay hydrated – Water is crucial in supporting the repair and recovery of your muscles
- Eat well – By following a balanced diet, you’ll avoid developing any nutrient deficiencies that might impact your muscles’ ability to recover
- Try supplements – Creatine has been widely studied, revealing its effect on improving muscular strength when resistance training – while also having the potential to reduce muscle damage and inflammation
- Natural steroids and SARMs – Natural steroids and SARMs alternatives can give you the boost your T levels need, optimizing your workout and recovery without any of the side effects
- Get plenty of rest – It sounds straightforward, but sleep gives your muscles time to recover
Ready to get SHREDDED?
There are plenty of ways to optimize your workouts and muscle growth, from getting plenty of rest to hitting the (cold) shower. Don’t forget, your post-workout routine is just as important as your pre-workout.
Allowing your body the time to both prepare – and restore itself – post-workout is key to maximizing your time in the gym.
Our 100% natural bodybuilding steroids and SARMs can support your goals, whether you’re cutting or bulking – Brutal Force can support your performance.
