Ice bath protocol?

Triathlon Forum
1

I’ve become a big believer in an ice bath after a long workout. However, I’m unsure of what to do after getting out of the bath. Stretch? Hot shower? what?

2

The first thing I usually do is check for excessive “shrinkage.” Then I go somewhere warm.

I would not recommend stretching afterwards. Do that after your workout and before the icebath. I don’t believe stretching muscles that are that cold is a good idea.

3

I’m with Jaylew on the stretching thing…don’t do it cold. I DO find that drinking the beer that was bobbing in the ice bath to be a nice relaxant.

5

I always take a cetain type of magazine in with me, helps prevent excess shrinkage!

6

I always take a cetain type of magazine in with me, helps prevent excess shrinkage!
No! Don’t tell me you take the Triathlon Bathing Suit issue with you! Horrors!

7

I am also a fan of the ice bath and find it incredibly useful for recovery after a long training session or intense training session like a track work out.

The best way I have found to go about this is:

  1. return from training session

  2. Stretch

  3. prepare recovery meal - shake/bar/etc.

  4. sit in tub and eat recovery meal

  5. shower

As always, ymmv. Keep in mind…Always stretch warm! Always eat after a training session.