I got into taking ice baths a few months ago and now I have been taking a 15-20 minute jaunt in the tub with three bags of ice after my long rides and runs.
I start my Ironman taper next week (I am doing CDA) and I am wondering - is there any benefit to taking an ice bath every day after one or both workouts? I just finished school and start working a few weeks after my race, so I am in limbo right now and would have the time. Is that going to do cell damage, or would it actually help me recover better from my workouts?
Are you talking three 20 lbs bags of ice??? If so, that is way more ice than you need. The optimal temp for an ice bath is something like 45-55 deg F (I cannot remember the exact temp). If you fill the tub with cold water, a MAX of 2 bags is plenty. I have well water, so, I can usually get away with one 20 lbs bag.
As far as taking them every day, I doubt it will harm you, but, also doubt it will do any good. If you have an issue (e.g., pulled muscle) it may help. Otherwise, over kill.
