We want you to enjoy all the benefits of cold water exposure whilst staying safe.
On this page you will find some helpful tips to remain safe whilst enjoying the cold water.
Try a cold shower
Before heading straight into an ice bath or a cold water swim, we suggest you try out a few cold showers. This is one of the best ways for beginners to start learning how to face the cold before fully immersing themselves in cold water. It will also acclimatise your body to colder temperatures, helping you avoid the initial panic that comes with cold water shock.
Preparation
When heading out into cold water, particularly in the wild - preparation is key. Here is a useful checklist:
- Change of clothes - we suggest laying them out so they are easy to put on when you get out!
- Nice big towel - have a look at our microfibre ice towels which feel very soft to the skin when your skin is feeling sensitive from the cold water.
- Flask with some hot tea (or Ribena!) - the best way to warm up afterwards!
- Hot water bottle - you can't beat this one! Please be careful with the bottle against your skin though. After being in cold water your skin will not feel the heat if the bottle is too hot.
- Watch - so you know how long you have been in the water.
Get Ready Mentally
Step next to the water ready to go in. Notice where your mind may go and how your body may start to react even before getting in the water. Use a few long, deep breaths to relax your body and get to a point of acceptance rather than fight. Remember why you are dong this and make the conscious choice that you want to get in.
Getting into the water
- Warm up before hand - this will help incrase your core temperature and loosen your muscles.
- Make sure you have a partner - just in case you do need some help
- Enter the water slowly - this will help reduce the inital shock and shortness of breath
- Remember to breath - this will you calm down and help you to relax
Whilst in the water
- Don't push yourself too hard - knowing your limits is important! Start with short sessions and gradually work up towards longer lengths as your body gets used to the feeling of cold.
- Listen to your body - if you feel exhausted, fatigued or achy..or just shivering then it is time to get out immediately.
Getting out of the water
Now is the time to get warm quick!
Take a few body weight squats and any movement that feels good to start to bring blood flow back to your arms and legs.
A hot shower can work well. However, it can cause a drop in blood pressure so we prefer to immediatley dry off and get dressed into warm clothes as quickly as possible.
Ideally all your clothes are laid out ready as described in the preparation guidance.
Shop Ice Tank
-
SaleIce Tank Pod
Regular price £75.00Regular priceUnit price per£120.00Sale price £75.00Sale -
Sold outIce Tank Pod with Water Chiller
Regular price £1,450.00Regular priceUnit price per -
Advanced Ice Bath with Water Chiller
Regular price £1,900.00Regular priceUnit price per£2,150.00Sale price £1,900.00Sale -
Advanced Ice Barrel with Water Chiller
Regular price £1,900.00Regular priceUnit price per£2,150.00Sale price £1,900.00Sale
Save the Arctic Ice
The Arctic’s climate is warming nearly three times faster than the rest of the planet. This is causing extensive habitat destruction and declines in the populations of species that depend on snow and ice. Ice Tank has partnered with Artic WWF to give 10% of all our profits to the WWF Arctic Programme.