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If you’re a grappler looking to incorporate kettlebells into your workout routine, it is suggested you start with kettlebells of varying weights. This allows you to adjust your workout with weights in response to your body’s needs and workout requirements as you target different groups of muscles.

A range starting from light to medium to heavy allows you to accommodate weights with the versatility to challenge yourself while improving your overall strength and conditioning. Remember, maintaining appropriate form and technique is a necessity and your kettlebells should be based on that.

How Many kettlebells do You Need For a Workout?

The beauty of kettlebell training is its versatility and how easy it is to get a good workout in with just two kettlebells. If the question arises of how many kettlebells one needs to efficiently be able to target every muscle group properly, then the answer is 2 kettlebells.

2 kettlebells are all you need to achieve all your goals regardless of your fitness level and experience. You will need a kettlebell of heavier weight for compound movements like the clean and jerk, goblet squat, and deadlift. The reason why these movements require heavier weights is that they employ multiple muscle groups and therefore need more weighted resistance to be trained.

The second kettlebell should be a bit lighter which would be used to train isolation-based exercises. Isolation exercises require a lighter-weight kettlebell because only one muscle group in one arm is being targeted in the movement, like the seated shoulder press and bicep curl.

However, it should be noted that if your budget is a bit tight, one kettlebell will do the trick! One heavy kettlebell is more than enough to perform all compound and isolation kettlebell exercises unilaterally.

Although it should be noted that with just one kettlebell because you are performing exercises unilaterally meaning one side at a time, your workouts might become longer as it will take twice as long to perform one set. In the end, the answer to ‘How many kettlebells do I need’ depends on you and your budget.

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Kettlebell Kings | Kettlebells That Feel Great In Your Hands

Kettlebell training involves dynamic, whole-body movements that enhance strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness. Its effectiveness for athlete-like conditioning stems from the combination of resistance training and functional movements. You need good equipment to get the most out of this style of training, that's why we choose Kettlebell Kings.

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Benefits of 2 Kettlebells

Having two kettlebells in your workout routine can offer several benefits. First, it allows for bilateral training, meaning you can work both sides of your or entire body part simultaneously, promoting balance and symmetry. Second, using two kettlebells increases the overall load and intensity of your exercises, challenging your muscles and promoting strength gains.

Having two kettlebells opens up a wider range of exercise variations, allowing you to do flexible movements that target different muscle groups and add variety to your workouts. Almost all double kettlebell exercises are compound movements, meaning multiple groups of muscles are trained at a time, this cuts your training time per kettlebell workout in half since a 4-6 exercise workout of double kettlebell exercises will train your whole body.

Benefits of 1 Kettlebell

You can avail numerous benefits by incorporating even a single kettlebell in your workouts. It allows for unilateral training, helping to address any muscle imbalances and improve stability. A single kettlebell can be used for a variety of exercises, targeting multiple muscle groups, and providing a challenging full-body workout.

It’s also a more cost-effective option compared to purchasing multiple kettlebells. So, even with just one kettlebell, you can still achieve great results and enjoy the benefits of kettlebell training. Using single kettlebell training is an excellent way to produce core strength and stability. This is particularly important for combat sports that require athletes to have strong balance.

Best Adjustable Kettlebell
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Pros:
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Cons:
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how many kettlebells should i buy

Quality Matters

When it comes to kettlebells, quality matters. Look for kettlebells made from durable materials like cast iron with a smooth finish and a comfortable handle knurling with a good grip. A well-made kettlebell will not only last you a lifetime but will also provide a better user experience, ensuring safety and effectiveness in your workouts.

So, invest in a high-quality kettlebell that meets your needs and enjoy the benefits of a reliable and well-designed fitness tool. Many kettlebell manufacturers produce these weights in all different price points and quality levels, choose the right size kettlebell and the right weight for you and enjoy your gains!

Should Your Kettlebells Be the Same Weight or Different?

Having kettlebells of different weights can be beneficial for your workouts. It allows you to vary the intensity and challenge yourself as you progress. For example, you may start with a lighter kettlebell for certain exercises and gradually increase to a heavier one as you build strength, muscle, and experience. Different weights also provide versatility, enabling you to target different muscle groups effectively.

However, if you’re just starting or have budget constraints, having a single kettlebell of a challenging weight can still provide a great workout. Ultimately, the choice between the same or different kettlebell weights all depends on your specific workout goals, preferences, and budget.

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Kettlebells for Men

Kettlebells are a great tool for men’s fitness. They can help build strength, improve cardiovascular endurance, and increase overall fitness levels. When choosing kettlebells for men, it’s important to consider your current fitness level and your fitness goals.

Start your kettlebell movements with a weight of around 25-45 lbs which allows you to perform exercises with proper form and gradually increase the load and intensity of dynamic movements as you get stronger. Remember, it’s not about the size of the kettlebell, but how you use it to challenge and push yourself.

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Starting Weight Guide

When starting with kettlebells, men need to choose an appropriate weight that aligns with their current fitness level. Here’s a general starting weight guide:

1. Beginner: If you’re new to kettlebell training or have limited strength training experience, start with a kettlebell weight between 8-16 kilograms (18-35 pounds). This will allow you to focus on mastering proper form and technique.

2. Intermediate: If you have some experience with kettlebell training or strength training, you can opt for a weight range of 16-24 kilograms (35-53 pounds). This will provide a greater challenge and help you progress in your kettlebell workouts.

3. Advanced: For men who have been training with kettlebells for a while and have developed a good level of strength, you can use kettlebells weighing 24 kilograms (53 pounds) or more. This will provide a high level of resistance for more intense and demanding workouts.

Remember, these weight ranges are just starting points and can vary based on individual fitness levels, goals, and abilities. Always prioritize proper form and gradually increase the weight as you become more comfortable and confident with your kettlebell training.

Best Kettlebell Brand
Kettlebell Kings | Kettlebells That Feel Great In Your Hands

Kettlebell training involves dynamic, whole-body movements that enhance strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness. Its effectiveness for athlete-like conditioning stems from the combination of resistance training and functional movements. You need good equipment to get the most out of this style of training, that's why we choose Kettlebell Kings.

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Kettlebells for Women

Kettlebells are fantastic for women’s fitness too! They offer a wide range of benefits such as building strength, improving cardiovascular endurance, and toning muscles. When choosing a kettlebell weight, it’s important to consider your current fitness level and goals.

Start with a weight that allows you to perform basic exercises, with proper form and gradually increase as you progress. Remember, it’s not about the size of the kettlebell, but how you use it to challenge yourself. So, grab those kettlebells and get ready for an amazing workout!

Starting Weight Guide

If you’re a beginner or new to kettlebell training, it’s recommended to start with a weight range of 5-12 kilograms (10-25 pounds). This allows you to focus on mastering proper form and technique without overwhelming your muscles.

As you become more comfortable and confident with your kettlebell workouts, you can gradually increase your weight to continue challenging yourself. Remember, it’s important to listen to your body and progress at a pace that feels right for you. Happy kettlebell training!

Factors To Consider When Choosing A Kettlebell and The Best Size

When choosing a kettlebell, there are several factors to consider:

1. Fitness Level: Beginners should start with a lighter weight and gradually progress.

2. Exercises and Goals: Different exercises may require different kettlebell sizes. Consider the specific exercises you’ll be doing and your goals.

3. Comfort and Durability: Ensure the kettlebell has a comfortable handle and is made of durable material.

4. Price and Budget: Kettlebells come in all different price points, if your budget is tight, you can even grab a pair of used cast iron kettlebells and they will get the job done!

The best kettlebell size for you depends on your abilities and goals. It’s always helpful to consult with a fitness professional for personalized guidance. Happy kettlebell training!

Should You Buy Adjustable Kettlebells or Standard Kettlebells?

When deciding between adjustable kettlebells and standard kettlebells, there are a few factors to consider. Adjustable kettlebells offer the convenience of being able to change weight, making them versatile for different exercises and fitness levels.

They typically have a mechanism that allows you to add or remove weight plates. This can be beneficial if you have limited space or budget constraints, as you only need to purchase one kettlebell that can be adjusted to different weights. On the other hand, standard kettlebells come in fixed weights and may require purchasing multiple kettlebells as you progress.

This can be more expensive and take up more space, but some people prefer the traditional feel and balance of standard kettlebells. Ultimately, the choice between using an adjustable kettlebell, and standard kettlebells depends on your personal preference, budget, space availability, and your workout routine.

It’s always a good idea to try out different options if possible and consult with a fitness professional for personalized advice.

How Often Should You Workout?

The sweet spot for kettlebell training is 3 times a week. For efficient muscle building, you should train all your muscles at least 2-3 times a week with adequate recovery time in between workouts. This is great for beginners and those with busy routines who cannot spare hours to go to the gym every day.

Recovery

When your entire body undergoes muscle hypertrophy, microscopic tears occur within your muscle tissue. Only with proper recovery and at least 48 hours of rest between workout sessions can you achieve a full recovery and come back bigger and stronger.

Cold Plunging for Recovery

Cold Plunging is the act of dunking your body in water that is below 45°F in efforts to activate a natural process that our bodies go through in the midst of being exposed to the cold. The benefits of cold plunging are astonishing for athletes or people who love to stay healthy and fit by exercising.

Grapplers Graveyard is the #1 source of information on the topic of cold plunging with over 50 articles written on our site about how the practice can drastically impact you for the positive in respect to helping you recover, boosting your mood, and much more.

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These handheld devices offer precise and targeted muscle relief, making them a favorite among athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Their rapid, percussive motions penetrate deep into muscle tissue, helping to release knots, trigger points, and muscle tension. The convenience and portability of these things really helps us enjoy the benefits of training martial arts more because we really do leave those training sessions very sore.

Adding this to our routine for just a couple of minutes a night makes for the perfect balance of training hard and aiding our quest to reach our peak!

CBD

We love using CBD so much, it has been a gamechanger for our recovery and allowed us to mend to dings and bruises that we get along the way. We are not just training BJJ a couple of times a week but also getting intense weightlifting sessions in as well. 

Athletes and active individuals are increasingly turning to CBD as a natural recovery aid for these reasons:

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Table of Contents

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Training your functional strength is key to ensuring longevity in your fitness journey. Training flexibility, mobility, and explosive strength will make sure you get the most out of your vigorous exercise. Without functional training, your muscles will be just for show.

Whether your goal is to carry all the groceries in one trip, the boats and logs or become a pro at boxing, kettlebells have got you covered! Training with kettlebells will have you as mobile, flexible, and explosive as never before.

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What is a Kettlebell?

A kettlebell is a piece of exercise equipment that is shaped with a weighted part on the bottom, connected to a thick handle on the top. The handle usually has some form of knurling to aid with grip strength. Kettlebells come in many different sizes, commonly from 1 to over 45 lbs.

How to Incorporate Kettlebell Movements Into Your Training

In essence, you can form a full-body workout with kettlebells in a short period of time. A full-body kettlebell workout just three times a week will provide excellent results and benefits. With kettlebells, less is more as you do not need to train every single day for long hours.

You can easily incorporate kettlebells into your daily fitness routine, without needing to take out long hours to achieve your fitness goals. A short 20-minute workout with one pair of kettlebells will surely have you gassed out by the end of it and allow you to gain all the benefits of kettlebell training.

Kettlebells are truly a feat of engineering because of how versatile and easy to use they are. You can achieve your fitness goals without breaking the bank or having to pour in hours of your day to go to the gym.

Best Adjustable Kettlebell
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Pros:
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  • Easy to use
  • Various Options (weight)
  • Can train various weight
Cons:
  • Typically more costly
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We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

16 Kettlebell Benefits of Kettlebell Training

Kettlebell training provides numerous benefits that can cater to whatever goal you have, whether you just want to lose some weight, gain some muscle or you want to maximize your athletic potential on the mats, you need to be training using kettlebells.

  • Provides a Full-body workout
  • Builds Cardio and Endurance
  • Fat Burning
  • Improves strength and stability
  • A new way to exercise
  • Get lean
  • Better coordination
  • Improve muscular weaknesses
  • Posterior chain muscle activation
  • Develops explosiveness (great for athletes)
  • Non-running cardio exercise (good on knees)
  • Builds grip strength
  • Improves flexibility and promotes athletic movement
  • Safe and effective
  • Increase range of motion 
Best Kettlebell Brand
Kettlebell Kings | Kettlebells That Feel Great In Your Hands

Kettlebell training involves dynamic, whole-body movements that enhance strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness. Its effectiveness for athlete-like conditioning stems from the combination of resistance training and functional movements. You need good equipment to get the most out of this style of training, that's why we choose Kettlebell Kings.

Latest Pricing
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Provides a Full-Body Workout

Kettlebells are known for how versatile they are; you do not need a whole gym’s worth of equipment or a large space to get a decent workout in. All you need is one or two kettlebells and you are set for months of benefits and gains.

A 20-minute full-body workout thrice a week is more than enough to set you on track for months of muscle gains and progress. Kettlebell exercises are high-velocity movements that have long ranges of motion, meaning multiple muscle groups are exercised at different parts of the exercise.

Exercises like the Turkish get-ups and kettlebell swings exercise your core strength and stability, shoulders, legs, and also your back. These make kettlebells great for beginners looking to get into fitness.

Builds Cardiovascular Endurance

Kettlebell training comprises fast-paced exercises that need a lot of movement. These intense workouts have you gassed out within minutes and help you push your cardiovascular endurance. Cardio training is essential for making sure you do not get tired during sports or just during day-to-day vigorous tasks.

Whether you build your cardiovascular endurance with kettlebells or some other equipment, you should make it a priority. Strengthening your cardiovascular endurance reduces the risk of heart disease, increases blood flow throughout your body and it also cleanses and strengthens your lungs.

Serious Fat-Burning Workouts

The average person burns around 700 to 1000 calories an hour from kettlebell training, depending on the intensity of the workout. This makes kettlebell training a great tool for losing fat in a healthy and quick manner.

Burning 2500 calories is the equivalent of burning a pound of fat. Three kettlebell workouts of a decent intensity are enough to lose a pound of fat every week. Although this may not seem like much, over a period of a few months, this will accumulate into a serious body transformation.

Kettlebells make fat loss much easier than mainstream influencers and trainers make it seem. Keep it simple, train hard, eat clean, and be patient to achieve your goals and enjoy the journey as there is no overnight solution to fat loss.

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Improves core strength and stability

One of the most functional reasons to use kettlebells is to develop core strength and stability in the trunk region. The core has an important role in keeping the body grounded especially during intense movements.

Kettlebell movements are high-velocity movements with large ranges of motion that challenge the core muscles to stop the body from falling over. Almost every exercise with kettlebells is a core exercise if done with proper form.

Whether you aspire to be an athlete or just want to have a beautiful set of abs for a beach day, training your core strength and stability will go a long way toward your core goals.

A Perfect Cardio Workout

Cardio is an essential part of our lives, especially for fitness enthusiasts. While there are many ways to get your cardio in, kettlebell training is one of the most enjoyable. This is because of their versatility and the amount of movement patterns you can perform which is virtually unlimited.

Kettlebell training not only trains your cardiovascular endurance but is also great for burning calories making it a great option instead of running or cycling etc.

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Builds Lean Muscle

Any form of weight training will over time, build muscle and help you develop an admirable physique. The same goes for kettlebell training, whether you prefer swinging full-body movements like single kettlebell swings or if you prefer isolating movement patterns like kettlebell bicep curls.

Kettlebell training has got your muscle-building goals covered as it exercises all the muscle groups needed to help build lean muscle mass, like your shoulders, legs, back, core, and chest.

Betters coordination and mobility

Kettlebell training is a great way to increase coordination and mobility. This helps especially if you are training for a combat sport, where your coordination, reflexes, and mobility are key to winning you over your opponent.

Exercises like the kettlebell halo where you have to switch the weight from each hand increase your mind-muscle connection, other high-velocity movements like kettlebell clean and swings also require your complete focus which betters your coordination and mobility.

Greatly improves muscular weaknesses and imbalances

Kettlebell workouts are an excellent option for fixing and reducing muscle imbalances. This is because many kettlebell exercises can be done unilaterally, in other words with one hand.

This helps stimulate and stabilize muscles. Using kettlebells will work these small muscles in rhythmic coordination, setting out stability and balance for the entire movement. As a result, reducing the risk of injury and improving athletic performance, or even helping with everyday house chores.

Posterior Chain Muscle Activation

The posterior chain or the muscles at the back of your body, like your lower back, hamstrings, and glutes are arguably the most important muscle group in your body. The reason is that these muscles are responsible for all hinging and explosive movements.

Training your posterior chain is quite simple. You can train your glutes, hamstrings, and lower back with just kettlebell swings and kettlebell deadlifts. Practice these regularly to a high intensity and you will become stronger than ever in no time!

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Develops explosive power in the hips

Kettlebells are great for developing explosive power in your hips. Your backside is one of the most important muscles in your body, especially for explosiveness and speed. Training it with kettlebells could help you jump higher, run faster, kick harder, and much much more.

Practice and progress at hinge movements with kettlebells and watch your athletic progress soar. Some great options for developing explosive strength in the hips are kettlebell swings, cleans, and snatches.

Great Non-Running Cardio Alternative

Running is not everyone’s piece of cake, it can be tiring and at times become boring. However, kettlebells have you covered. Kettlebell training is an excellent form of exercise and an even better form of cardio, not only does it have more benefits than age-old running but it is also very entertaining.

With limitless exercises and variations, kettlebells will make sure you do not get bored, all while building muscle, fixing muscle imbalances, losing fat, increasing life expectancy, and also getting your cardio in.

Builds grip strength

Doing normal grip work by exercises like farmer’s walks is out of the range of most people. However, every gym has a few cast iron kettlebells you can train with to give the most respect-commanding handshakes ever. A strong grip is a great asset for all your pulling desires.

It can translate to better deadlifts, better grappling, and much more. Even if you cannot go to a gym, kettlebell training with swinging exercises is more than enough to indirectly increase your grip strength over time allowing you to give unforgettable handshakes.

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Improves Balance and Flexibility

Exercises like the single leg kettlebell deadlift and kettlebell Turkish get-up are great exercises if you want to improve your balance and flexibility. To improve your balance you must have a strong core and lower body, these exercises train both, very well.

These are challenging movements that push your core stability and strength to failure. The lack of stability in these movements slowly decreases as you progress, improving your balance and flexibility. This is just one of the benefits of kettlebell training that help with balance in mixed martial arts.

Low Risk, High Reward (Safer and More Effective)

Kettlebell training is essentially one of the safest options you have for weight training. Although it is not impossible to injure yourself with kettlebells, you can certainly easily avoid any major injuries by just maintaining good form. Fortunately, most kettlebell exercises have to easy to follow techniques.

Alongside the benefit of low risk of injury, there are many other benefits of kettlebell training. These are versatile, cheap, and excellent tools for beginners and even professionals. They provide numerous health benefits like increased muscular and cardiovascular endurance, explosive power, and much more.

Kettlebells are much safer than dumbbells and barbells because of the free movement patterns and they also have many more variations that can cater to the level of experience.

Develops a Stronger Posterior Chain and Improves Posture

Having a strong posterior chain is essential to maintaining a good posture over time. Having a good posture helps you become and look more confident, it can also make you look taller when your spine decompresses.

Your spine is what keeps your upper and lower body upright in a strong manner, if you strengthen your posterior chain, you will notice an increase in strength in the overhead position allowing you to train your shoulders and the rest of your upper body strength in a better manner.

Kettlebell exercises like kettlebell swings, deadlifts, and cleans all strengthen your posterior chain. This also includes your back which is responsible for keeping a straight and confident posture.

Increases Range of Motion

Anything that increases mobility or stability in your body will allow you to increase your range of motion for many exercises. For example, you might be able to squat deeper. Training with lighter weights and high movement is an excellent way to increase the range of motion.

Kettlebell training does just that, it puts your body into unfamiliar positions which develops strength in those unknown areas. Exercises like Turkish get-ups and overhead kettlebell squats create immense strength in your core strength and stability.

kettlebell benefits for combat sports athletes

Who should take advantage of the benefits of kettlebells?

Anyone who is looking to become a more explosive athlete needs to be training using kettlebells. The main benefit of training with kettlebells is the fact that you are actively working on functional movements. Anyone who is training crossfit, martial arts, or some other form of exercise that involves real athleticism should be using kettlebells in their routine.

As a combat sport athlete you should be running towards training in dynamic ways that can help elevate your game on the mats or in the cage. Training with kettlebells, sandbags, and hammers has a big impact on the way you are able to perform.

Have trouble with finding ways to work out functionally? No problem we have you covered!

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People Also Ask

Can you really build muscle with kettlebells?

Any form of weight training will help you build muscle over time. Kettlebell weight training is an exceptional option if you want to put on some muscle mass to your frame. Just three full-body workouts every week will allow you to build an aesthetic physique in a matter of mere months.

Kettlebell training will also give you countless other health benefits like increasing your blood flow, and life expectancy, lose fat, and increasing cardiovascular endurance.

Is it OK to do kettlebell exercises every day?

Body awareness is essential to growth, the human body is not capable of extracting benefits from vigorous exercise every day and needs rest. It is recommended to get at least 48 hours of rest in between workouts to allow for complete recovery.

Three intense workouts with kettlebells are more than enough to efficiently support and pursue whatever fitness goals you may have. Training every day would be overkill and would cause more harm than good, make recovery and sleep a priority and you will make unbelievable gains!

Will kettlebells get you in shape?

Kettlebells will surely get you in shape, all you will need is a good training plan, a decent diet, and a priority set on recovery especially if you are a beginner. Kettlebells are great for building muscle as the weighted movements allow for hypertrophy which builds muscle mass over time.

They are also good for fat loss as they burn anywhere from 700 to 1000 calories an hour meaning you can easily lose one pound every week by just exercising thrice a week. This may not seem like much but over time it accumulates to over 50 pounds a year which would be a major body transformation.

Are kettlebell workouts good for athletes?

Kettlebell training is amazing for producing and increasing explosive power in the body. This is a very important part of almost every sport as you are required to produce a large amount of force in a short period of time.

Whether you aspire to be a golf player or boxer, kettlebells will definitely benefit you in your sport. Movements like Kettlebell swings and cleans are excellent explosive movements that will help you punch harder, swing quicker or jump higher.

What is the best kettlebell weight for athletes?

To be athletic, you must push yourself in your training routines to maximize efficiency and make sure your body does not fail you on game day. To train to this intensity you will most likely need heavy weights. The sweet spot for most kettlebell workouts for most women is 10-25-lb kettlebells, and for men, it’s 25-45 lbs.

However, this is for the average person and fitness enthusiast. For athletes, these numbers could be significantly higher like 25-45 lbs for women and 45-65 lbs for men.

Should athletes do kettlebell swings?

Kettlebell swings are one of the best athletic movements that should be incorporated into every athlete’s training plan. The reason for this is that swings are a full-body movement that increases explosive power and cardiovascular endurance both of which are detrimental to any sport.

This movement is also great for developing stability and flexibility in the core area. Core strength training is an important part of any sport whether it is football or boxing.

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Do NFL players use kettlebells?

Although kettlebell training provides the benefits needed to soar at football, NFL athletes rarely use kettlebells in their training routines, because other equipment is more suited to cater to their goals. Players in the National Football League take their training very seriously and use a lot of equipment

This includes machines, dumbells, and barbells. Although kettlebell movements are based on developing explosive power, football also requires athletes to have serious full-body strength which allows them to wrestle, push and tackle their opponents allowing them to progress on the field.

However, very few NFL athletes take advantage of this exceptional fitness equipment. Movements like the kettlebell clean, snatch, and swings are great exercises for developing explosive power and should all be incorporated into your kettlebell exercise circuits.

How do I pick the right size kettlebell?

More often than not people assume that 5 or 10-lb kettlebells are good enough for a beginner kettlebell workout. However, this is not at all the case if you go too light you are simply wasting your time going through the movements. If you go too heavy, you risk getting injured as you sacrifice form.

It is very important to safely challenge yourself; to do so you must pick a decent weight to work out with. The sweet spot for most kettlebell workouts for most women is 10-25-lb kettlebells, and for men, it’s 25-45 lbs. Anything under this, and you probably won’t break a sweat using them and you’ll just be doing the movements with no real benefits.

The right size for you may also depend on your age, weight, and fitness experience. However, it should be noted that if you choose the right size for you, you will gain all the benefits in the quickest and most efficient manner, that too with the lowest risk of injury.

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This is not generic advice given to you by AI. The other articles on this search term cannot say the same thing. Starting a business is hard work that a robot will never be able to replicate, so why should you listen to it or those that us AI to give you advice? The quick answer is that you shouldn’t.

We have done tons of research on Cold plunging and have the most in-depth cold plunge information on our website to answer all questions about the practice. Cold plunging has been a vital part to our training routine for years now and we love sharing what we know.

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6 Steps To Starting A Cold Plunge Business

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    You need to be in an area that has a little more money. Your services may not be on the cheap side so making the business accessible and visible to those ideal customers is going to be a huge component to the success of your cold plunge business.

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    Staring a cold plunge business is not the cheapest thing in the world. There are plenty of other businesses that you can create other than going down this route but that kind of creates your competitive edge. With the barrier of entry being higher than what most people are willing to do, the profits can start pouring in because you have room to be the best in your market.

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    We will flat out say it, the best cold plunge devices that you should be looking into as a business are the following (in order):

    After reviewing just about every cold plunge on the market, these are our top 5. They are there because of the quality, flowrate of the water, the chilling units are beasts of devices, and they are beautifully designed. All of the cold plunges listed above of of the utmost quality to legitimize the business you plan on building.

    We have a post about everything you should know before buying a cold plunge that can be found (here) on our website. Be sure to check that out before making any purchases.

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    Knowledge

    Knowledge is power, we all know this. but what most won’t tell you, is that knowledge is also credibility. Knowing more than the average person about any topic makes them think that you are an authority on the topic. When you can coach someone to live a better, happier, healthier way of living they will eat up the services you provide.

    Strive to be the most knowledgeable about everything related to your business.

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    Marketing

    This is where most people go wrong. Later in this article we briefly breakdown platforms that you should be building an audience on. Where most people make a mistake is that they are not using the platforms that are out there for their intended purposes. if you want a more pointed conversation with us here, we are happy to help.

    Email grapper @ grapplersgraveyard dot com.

    Organization

    This should go without saying, make sure you have some form of accounting and a way to keep all your finances organized. Come tax season you will thank us for saying this. The more organized you are with the financial side of things the easier your life will be. We personally use QuickBooks for our accounting and separate spreadsheets to track income and expenses so when tax season rolls around we have two sources of information to work with.

    Outsource and Hire

    The quality of people you have working with you to build ut your dream is a huge component of being able to make this whole thing work. Give up the idea of doing everything yourself, in the beginning, it is okay but long term you need to be thinking about getting quality people to help you with tasks that take too much time off your hands!

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    Diversify Traffic

    Diversifying where people hear about your business is a great way to separate you from the competition that you may be competing with on a local level. Now, if you sell specific products that can be shipped, this will also help you get more eyeballs to your business.

    Posting on various social media platforms all results in different things that help your business build up its brand. There are so many platforms out there that can be utilized for business purposes. All of them have a different use case. Don’t try to spread yourself too thin, try stick with a couple of platforms and create content that brings more people through the doors and makes them excited to try out the experience!

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    Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, and More

    AnswerThePublic

    Personally, I look at social media as a video-based search engine that just answers people’s questions. Educating is a great way to grow a following but you have to cater the way you teach an audience to the way they will receive it best and in a way that the algorithms reward. It’s simple really. Give the people what they want (even when they don’t know what they want) in the way they like to consume.

    If you are having trouble coming up with ideas I will give you a million-dollar hack: Use AnswerThePublic.

    AsnerThePublic lets you type in keywords for any niche and spits out at least 100 questions that people are already asking on the internet. Use this to come up with new ideas if you are stuck. This has been a game changer for our blog on Grapplers Graveyard and gave us over 700 ideas to write posts or emails about. You can get lifetime access to the tool for only $100.

    Start A Blog

    All that a blog does is answer people’s questions about a particular topic. If you want free traffic from Google start a blog that answers people’s questions in-depth. The average blog post is about 2,000 words and most that rank on page one of Google follow a specific formula. be sure to do your research on what is needed for you to reap the rewards of having a blog on your business website.

    Instagram

    This is an obvious platform that you should be on. This is where you should be a little more aesthetically pleasing with the content that you put out. Be sure to use reels that showcase what cold plunges are, how they work, and other frequently asked questions that you know you get as a cold plunge business owner.

    If you want to make still graphics, you should 100% be using Canva. Canva makes it so easy to make content that can really be utilized across different platforms. From videos to infographic posts to logos, Canva has you covered with the majority of your content needs.

    TikTok

    To best use these social media platforms you need to understand the audience that is there in the first place. Ask yourself this, who uses TikTok? Typically, it is a younger crowd that wants to be entertained in some way shape, or form, create content with this in mind. Lighten up the mood on your TikToks, use trending sounds, and find a way to educate along the way.

    Yes, this is vague because you will have to find the cord to stick for your audience. What works for us won’t work for everyone!

    Pinterest

    We LOVE Pinterest. We think it is probably the most under utilized platform of all social medias. The reason we love it so much is because the traffic you get from this platform is much like the traffic you get from Google, it comes back ever month and continues to grow over time (as you post).

    All the videos and graphics you create on the other platforms should go right here, no questions asked. Point all the content back to a specific page on your website and just let the views roll in! In just two months, we grew our Pinterest to over 100,000 monthly views so it is possible to see massive growth here!

    Local Events

    This was a strategy we say Renu Therapy used at a tough mudder event. The majority of people who will take on cold plunging are into some form of health and fitness. This marketing strategy will probably be easier if you have a portable (or inflatable) cold plunge devices in your business but showing up to events like this and giving people an opportunity to cold plunge will be a great way to share the benefits and have people experience it first hand.

    Research local fitness events in your town and plan to make a trip there!

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    What Cold Plunges Are Worth the Investment?

    A cold plunge is well worth the investment. The biggest factor in saying that it was not worth it is if you are not aware of the benefits of cold exposure in the first place or if you are not willing to invest in your health, our guess is that you are not here, reading this, if you fall into these categories.

    Starting a new business venture is both exciting and liberating. People who go the entrepreneurial route are those who don’t want to keep clocking into a regular job, they want to create something and share their gifts or interests with the world.

    Even if you end up not starting a business around your cold plunge, you are investing into your health and well-being which is never a bad thing.

    Can a Cold Plunge Business be Profitable?

    Yes, most businesses can eventually be profitable. Running a wellness center or a cold plunge business may have a large upfront cost associated before you actually turn a profit but with the proper planning and execution, you can turn a profit.

    Social media and leveraging the internet is a great way to get more people to learn about your business.

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    Table of Contents

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    Many white belts struggle with tying their belt in their first couple weeks of practice. It takes a while to get the movement down swiftly. So what are the actions you can take to swiftly and effectively tie your BJJ belt?

    Here is a video on How to Tie Your BJJ Belt:

    Steps To Tie A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Belt

    1. Join the Martial Arts Community:

      The majority of grappling artists wear formal attire known as a kimono. To keep this uniform on, students of martial arts wear a belt.

      Not only do these belts keep your Gi on, but they also symbolize your experience level in the sport! To tie your BJJ belt, you have to become a part of the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community.

    2. Fix Your Kimono:

      There is a specific way to wear your kimono before you wrap your belt around your waist.

      To begin, hold your belt in one hand while using your fingers and your free hand to push your right collar against your body.

      Once you have put your right side down, you want to place your left collar on top of the right one.

      Notice how the right collar is wrapped beneath the left .
    3. Even Out and Wrap Your Belt:

      The most basic way of tying your belt is universally known as the Square Knot A.K.A the Granny knot. Hold your belt out in front of your belly button making sure that both ends of the belt are similar in length.

      Then, wrap your belt around your waist. As your hands meet in the back, cross your belt and switch each end to the opposite hand.

      Once your belt is wrapped around your waist, pull the ends back to the front of your stomach.

    4. Tie the First Layer:

      Take the right part of your BJJ belt and cross it over the left. Then, loop the right end under both layers of the belt and pull the end through. Tug the tail end of each side of the belt to ensure there is no slack.

    5. Finish the final knot:

      The ending knot is the simplest part of the whole process. Once you have made sure your kimono is worn properly, the belt is at equal length, and you have gone through the wrapping, and looping process, you are finally ready to tie your BJJ belt.

      The last step is to simply tie your belt as you would tie a shoelace; the left end wraps over and loops under the right end and boom! You are ready for the close combat training that you’ve been asking for!

      There are many other forms apart from the basic method of tying your belt. These fancy styles are often used by black belts but can be picked up by a white belt with enough practice.

      The most used alternative to the granny knot (the basic way of tying a BJJ belt) is a method known as the Double Water Knot.

      Although this keeps the belt tied firmer, it takes an exceptional amount of time to tie compared to the basic Square Knot.

      Properly tied Square Knot

       

    It is important to note that although this style of knot is proper etiquette in the sport of Jiu-Jitsu, there are times during hard rounds that it may come off.

    A new student may be tempted to tie their belt mid-roll. Although there is no law against the action unless you compete, it is okay to continue training if the belt comes off.

    Be careful though! Many Jiu-Jitsu practitioners base their fight strategy around using your lapel to attack different methods of sweeps, submissions, and passes!

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    Different Types of Belts

    The type of belt you invest in is important for physical comfort and aesthetic. If you look and feel good in your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu uniform, your confidence is going to skyrocket!

    In general, there is only one type of Jiu-Jitsu belt that people use worldwide. That is the typical 100% cotton belt that you can find around almost every online corner.

    These stylish, traditional belts typically don’t come in different forms, but they do come in different styles and colors.

    On the end of each BJJ belt, there is typically a brand tag; these differ between businesses. Some companies make their Jiu-Jitsu belts a shade lighter, others go for a darker, more serious tone.

    At the end of the day, nearly all of them are made of the same thing and the choice is almost ultimately cosmetic.

    Although No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu does not require practitioners to wear a belt and kimono, the sport does have its ranking system.

    Typically, practitioners of the sport wear a rash guard that correlates to their belt ranking. If the athlete is a blue belt, they wear a blue rash guard instead. If a grappler has made it up to their brown belt, they will typically wear a brown rash guard during practice and competition.

    Additionally, a lot of No-Gi schools will allow their students to wear any color rash guard they desire, but on promotion day, they are required to bring their Gi just in case they were chosen to get a new belt or stripe.

    350+ Jiu Jitsu Belt Illustrations, Royalty-Free Vector Graphics & Clip Art  - iStock | Martial arts

    Why Tie Your Belt In the First Place?

    There are a few reasons to tie your BJJ belt before stepping on the mat.

    First and foremost, it is important to note that your belt is a symbol of discipline, dedication, and knowledge.

    Even though nowadays many professors do not mind if your belt comes off in the middle of practice, it is traditional and formal to keep your belt tied at all times during a Jiu-Jitsu workout. The only exception to this rule is during live rounds.

    If your belt comes off during a roll or a match it is acceptable to place it to the side (do not throw it) and continue the match.

    Additionally, tying your belt keeps your Jiu-Jitsu Gi closed and formal. When your kimono is hanging outside of your belt, it can be gripped and used against you.

    In BJJ, many practitioners use the uniform to play worm guard, establish a dominant position using grips, and even submit their opponents.

    Although it is nearly inevitable to avoid a belt untying in a high-paced round, a proper knot could be the difference between a match won, or a match lost by a submission.

    When you tie a Jiu-Jitsu belt and step on the mat, you are sacrificing a lot. You set aside your time, pride, and safety to participate in the grappling combat sport. No matter how you tie your belt, whether it be a Square Knot or any alternative, be proud of what you are wearing. Not many people have the guts to step into a martial arts gym.

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    One of the hardest tasks to accomplish when starting in BJJ is learning and memorizing how to tie your Jiu-Jitsu belt. Many steps are unique enough to make a difference, but similar enough to get confused. Here are a few mistakes that new grapplers make when tying their BJJ belt

    tie jiu jitsu belts, tying bjj belt

    Here is a video on how to tie your BJJ properly:

    Common Mistakes People Make When Tying BJJ Belt

    1. They do not even out their belt before tying:

      It is important to make sure that your Jiu-Jitsu belt is even on both sides before tying it around your waist.

      To ensure this, grab the belt as close to the center as possible and let both ends hang. If one end is longer than the other, adjust to ensure that the belt is even, and then continue to tie your belt.

    2. They begin from the back:

      Many people struggle with the idea that you are supposed to wrap the belt around your waist from the front before you bring it around from behind you.

      If you start the wrap from the back of your body, your belt will be long and loose. It won’t take long for your belt to fall off.

    3. Their belt is too small:

      One of the most common mistakes people make when tying their belts knot is not having the correct size.

      Too small of a Gi belt and you won’t be able to tie it properly. Too big of a belt and it will hang down to your knees! This will allow opponents to gain advantageous positions such as worm guard. It is important to look at measurement tables to ensure that your belt fits you just right.

      A well-fitted belt ensures that your kimono stays on and you look good on the mat.

       

    Steps To Tie A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Belt (Properly)

    Tying the perfect knot can be very difficult for a beginner in the sport of Jiu-Jitsu. Here are the core steps to follow when attempting to tie your BJJ belt.

    tying bjj belt, tie a jiu jitsu
    1. Wrap:

      To begin, hold your belt with both hands in front of you. Your hands should be about a foot apart in length. Make sure both sides of your belt are hanging at equal length.

      Then you have to wrap your Kimono properly. To do this, take the left collar and place it against your body.

      Follow the left one with the right collar and use one of your hands to keep them from falling apart.

      Finally, wrap your belt around your body. As your hands meet in the back, cross your belt and switch each end to the opposite hand. You should then pull tight in front of you to keep the tension in the belt. Failure to pull during this step will lead to a looser belt. You don’t want to have to retie your belt mid-roll

    2. Tie:

      Take the right part of your BJJ belt and cross it over the left. Then, loop the right end under both layers of the belt and pull the end through. Tug the tail end of each side of the belt to ensure there is no slack.

    3. Knot:

      The ending knot is the simplest part of the whole process. Once you have made sure your kimono is worn properly, the belt is at equal length, and you have gone through the wrapping, and looping process, you are finally ready to tie your Jiu-Jitsu belt.

      The last step is to simply tie your belt as you would tie a shoelace; the left end wraps over and loops under the right end and boom! You have stopped the worm guard player from grabbing hold of your Kimono!

    Best BJJ Knots for All Purposes

    Standard Variation Knot

    stndard knot

    The standard variation knot is the core method of how to tie a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu belt.

    Once you get the hang of tying your belt this way, you will be able to get that knot back on in less than 10 seconds after it falls off.

    This knot will allow you to stay focused on the enemy instead of your attire during your matches.

    The Pro Way To Tie a Belt

    Close Up Of A Bjj Brown Belt Stock Photo - Download Image Now - Jujitsu,  Belt, Brown - iStock

    One of the different methods of tying your belt is known as the water knot.

    This method tucks the tail ends of your belt in between the wrap you made in step 1. This method decreases the amount of untied belts and ensures that you create a stronger, tighter knot.

    Whether you are trying the basic way of tying your belt or attempting the super lock it can be a struggle to understand and memorize how to tie your Jiu-Jitsu belt properly.

    Although it can be tough, all you need is practice. It only takes a few weeks to memorize the first method and it can be used across to tie your belt in any grappling combat sport!

    Happy Rolling!

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    FAQ

    I just started, how do I get my white belt?

    Typically, a white belt will come with a Gi that you can buy at your local gym. If not, you can buy your BJJ belt online, at tournaments, or in stores.

    Do I train No-Gi or Gi? What should I always bring to the gym?

    If you are trying to be a master in the martial arts community, you should be able to compete and teach at a high level in both Gi and No-Gi. Jiu-Jitsu consists of both so to master the sport as a whole, you must learn both styles.

    When training Gi, you should always be equipped with your BJJ belt, Kimono, rash guard, and mouth guard. When you are practicing No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu, bring your Rash guard, BJJ shorts, and a mouth guard

    Can I use an old belt from karate or judo for BJJ?

    Karate belts tend to be thinner, cheaper, and lower quality compared to Judo and Jiu-Jitsu belts. BJJ and Judo belts can be interchanged as long as the color stays consistent with your ranking.

    What is the best way to tie martial arts belts?

    For grappling martial arts such as Jiu-Jitsu, it may be worth looking into the water knot. Not only will it ensure that your belt will stay tied, but it objectively looks sharper and more formal.

    As for other martial arts such as karate, there is just as much reason to learn the water knot as well.

    With all of the movement in your upper and lower body, the belt on your waist is almost guaranteed to come off.

    What are other names for the same belt knots?

    There are a few ways to tie a Jiu-Jitsu belt. Each method has a few names they go by.

    For instance, the standard belt knot is known to be the basic way of tying your belt and can be seen as proper etiquette by some.

    Other names given to this tie are the granny knot (which is ironic due to the way a practitioner can tie their belt quickly using this method) and the square knot, which makes sense due to the shape of the knot after being tied.

    As for the different methods of tying your belt, the “Pro way”, can be referenced as the water knot, the double water knot, or the unbreakable knot due to its strength and security.

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    The BJJ belt system takes years of hard work and effort to advance through. Many athletes struggle to make it to blue belt let alone black belt!

    Many white belts ponder how long it will take to make it through all the belt rankings. In this article we will b,e focusing on how long it takes to make it through the whole BJJ belt system.

    Understand How to Move Up a Belt in Jiu-Jitsu

    bjj, jiu jitsu, jiu-jitsu, bjj belt timeline

    Progressing in BJJ takes physical and mental strength. Learning new techniques and applying them during live rounds or tournaments can be very difficult, especially for beginners. Here are a few tips to move up in rank faster.

    1. Do not think of your next belt promotion:

      Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is about enjoying the experience of learning new skills and applying them during intense and stressful situations. When you are focusing on when your next belt promotion is going to be. You lose sight of what it means to practice BJJ. You are no longer rolling to have fun and progress, you are rolling to prove and earn something.

      This is when Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu becomes dangerous not just for your mind, but for your partner’s body as well. Rolling with an ego at practice typically results in injury.

      Focus on enjoying your time on the mats and don’t stress about when you’re going to get that promotion to purple belt.

    2. Compete:

      Competing, no matter what belt you are, is an incredible way to fast-track your progression. If you are constantly winning tournaments at the white belt, your coach will most likely want to challenge you, moving you up a rank to the blue belt. If you are constantly winning those, it’s pretty obvious you deserve a purple. If you are a good student who is dominant on the mats, your coach will have no problem giving you a promotion to challenge you during competition.

    3. Stay consistent:

      Being consistent is essential in any combat sport. It is very difficult to go once every two weeks and excel. If you are looking to be promoted as soon as possible, come to as many practices as possible. Not only will this benefit your technique and confidence when competing, but it will also show your professor that you are putting time into the sport of Jiu-Jitsu. This is one of, if not the best way to get a promotion. Like everyone always says; consistency is key!

      1. Help out around the gym:

        Helping staff out of the kindness of your heart by cleaning the mats or sweeping the floors shows that you are a true martial artist. Jiu-Jitsu practitioners aren’t just good at what they do, but they are good in all aspects of life. Coaches aren’t just looking for jocks that destroy their competitors during competitions, they are looking for kind, intellectual individuals who are disciplined and show progression over time. If you are a killer on the mats, you stay consistent, and you are kind enough to help out around the gym, it won’t be long before you are getting your next promotion.

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    BJJ Belt Timeline

    Students are promoted through the following BJJ belt order

    How long does it take to get to the black belt?

    Getting your black belt is an incredible achievement in any martial art. It shows proper discipline and knowledge of the sport.

    A white belt could be expected to earn their Black belt in an average of ten years. This may seem like quite a while to some, but to earn your black belt, you have to learn and perfect hundreds of techniques. Although the journey is long, the experience and memories you gain make it all worth it in the end.

    The Stripes on Brazilian jiu-jitsu are rewarded for:

    • Time spent training

    • Jiu-jitsu knowledge

    • Behavior and attitude on the mat

    • Performance

    White to Blue: The First Rank

    blue belt, white belt, bjj belt timeline

    The leap between the white belt and the blue belt is one of the most important and difficult jumps you can make in the sport of BJJ. 90% of Brazilian Jiu-jitsu athletes quit before they accomplish this task. So why is it so hard to commit to the sport?

    Like any other martial art, Jiu-Jitsu hurts. There are plenty of uncomfortable situations that many athletes are not okay with being in.

    Along with that, BJJ is very difficult. The learning curve is exceptionally high and when you first start training as a white belt, you are going to get beat up.

    But as you consistently show up, you will start tapping out other white belts, then blue belts, then purple belts, and eventually black belts!

    The leap from White belt to blue belt typically takes an average of 2-3 years depending on age, consistency, and placement at tournaments.

    White Belt Goals

    As a white belt progressing up to your blue belt, you should be able to:

    • Podium at tournaments

    • Submit the majority of the white belts at your dojo

    • Know basic submission techniques

    Blue to Purple:

    brazilian jiu jitsu, bjj, fitness, bjj belt timeline

    Going from your blue to purple belt gives many practitioners pride and confidence. It is important to keep that pride under control, many practitioners get humbled and end up losing motivation shortly after getting their purple belt.

    Remember that there is a big difference between blue and purple belts.

    Those who have the ranking of purple typically have exceptional speed, strength, and technique that in most cases can outmatch a blue belt’s BJJ game.

    As long as you continue to learn and progress through the sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as a blue belt you should be getting your purple in about 2-4 years.

    Blue belt Goals

    If you are a blue belt striving to reach the rank of purple, you should be:

    • Winning local tournaments

    • Getting on the podium at big tournaments

    • able to teach kids the fundamentals of Brazilian JIu-Jitsu

    • Let go of your pride

    Purple to Brown

    men, jiu-jitsu, jujutsu

    Moving up a rank from purple can be an extremely difficult task. To continue to progress at such a high level, you must stay consistent and continue to add new techniques to your game. Purple belt’s skill level can vary from person to person.

    Some practitioners who wear a purple belt may be older than others. Some may compete and others might not. If you train consistently and show that you deserve it, you should reach the brown belt in 2-5 years. That may seem like a long time for some.

    You will be promoted when you deserve to be promoted.

    Purple Belt Goals

    As an aspiring brown belt, you should

    • Be able to teach a fundamental class

    • Tap some brown belts

    • Completely understand the basics of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

       

    Brown to Black:

    bjj, jiu jitsu, jiu-jitsu, bjj belt timeline

    Although the time gap between this gap may not be too long, it may seem like the lengthiest in all of Jiu-Jitsu.

    Many brown belts get ahead of themselves and get too excited knowing they are just one step away from finally having their black belt in BJJ.

    Although it is an exciting and monumental experience to look forward to, it is important to take your time at this level and focus on your technique.

    Black belt tournaments are a whole different world compared to the brown belt brackets. As a black belt, you may be going against someone in your bracket who has eight or more years of experience fighting against the black belt.

    Take your time at this level and do not rush the experience. If you are close to being promoted and you compete often, enjoy the feeling of domination in your bracket.

    It is a whole different ball game when you reach the level of black. As a brown belt, you should be expected to get your black belt in 2-4 years.

    Brown Belt Goals:

    As a brown belt in the sport of Jiu-Jitsu, you should be:

    • Able to teach a mixed-level class

    • comfortable presenting yourself and your skill set in front of other practitioners

    • Able to coach kids

    • Competing or training at a high level

       

    Black belt in BJJ

    Being promoted to a lack belt can be an emotional experience for many. Every black belt you see on the mats has put blood, sweat, and tears into the sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

    It takes years to reach this level, but it comes with its perks. For one, you can become better known.

    If you are a competitive fighter who is beating black belts at high-level tournaments, you are going to get your name around no matter what.

    Jiu-Jitsu is a tight-knit community. Word of new and high-level athletes spreads like wildfire. If you aren’t as into competition, at black belt, you will have far more opportunities to help teach at your dojo.

    There are plenty of white belts in your gym that would love to learn from your years of experience.

    Remember that even though you are a black belt, this is still the beginning of your journey.

    If you choose to continue in the sport of Jiu-Jitsu, you have countless years ahead of you and hundreds of techniques to learn. Stay humble and enjoy what the sport has to offer

    Black belt Goals

    Black belts should be able to:

    • Coach students at tournaments

    • If competitive, compete at a high level

    • Master the basics of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

    As you progress in Jiu-Jitsu, make sure to enjoy the process. As stated previously, BJJ is a long journey that consists of many ups and downs. Some days you are going to be the hammer and others you are going to be the nail. Take the tough days in stride and embrace them. Be thankful for your health, opportunities, and journey.

    Happy Rolling!

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    FAQ

    How many years does it take to get belts in BJJ?

    On average each belt takes around 2-3 years to advance from. These periods depend on how well you perform against opponents, how hard you train during practice, and how kind and courteous you are on and off the mats.

    How to move up in belts faster?

    The easiest way to move up in belts faster is to stay consistent. Consistency will allow you to progress fully through your belt ranking, it will allow you to learn and remember more over a long period, and prove to your coaches that you are going to stay consistent through the next colored belt as well.

    What belt is Mark Zuckerberg?

    Forty-year-old Mark Zuckerberg got his blue belt back in July of 2023. He has been training consistently for about a year now and even participated in his first-ever Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournament a while ago.

    He has access to the best of the best when it comes to coaches and teammates so his progression has skyrocketed in the past few months.

    What belt is Joe Rogan?

    The podcast star known as Joe Rogan has a black belt not only in Taekwondowell-renounced but in Jiu-Jitsu as well!

    He has trained for years and competed in many tournaments all around the United States Even though Taekwondo is his main sport, Joe Rogan has found time to progress and excel in the sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

    What belt is Elon Musk?

    The well-renounced millionaire known as Elon Musk has been said to briefly train BJJ along with a handful of other martial arts. He has been well respected by many black belts in the sport and looks to get back in training to prepare for his upcoming fight with the creator of Amazon, Mark Zuckerberg.

    As stated previously, Elon practices a wide variety of martial arts. Some of these include Karate, Taekwondo, Judo, and of course, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

    It is refreshing to see such big icons praising the art of Jiu-Jitsu. It is about time the sport gets its time in the spotlight.

    Having these huge names such as Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg put such respect on BJJ is truly incredible not just for fans of the billionaires who decide to try it out, but for the overall family and economy of the sport.

    Which belt takes the longest time to progress through

    Out of all Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu belts, the black belt is the most difficult to make it past. A Jiu-Jitsu practitioner must be disciplined enough to make it past seven degrees of the black belt before being given the promotion to the coral belt.

    The coral belt is a white and red belt that a practitioner receives when they get their eighth degree of black belt.

    This typically takes decades to achieve due to the length of time between the promotions.

    All in all, the jump from black belt to coral belt is easily the most difficult and time-consuming leap that you can jump in the sport of Jiu-Jitsu

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    Getting started in any combat sport can be intimidating. There are thousands of techniques to learn and thousands of different goals to accomplish. With all of that being said, what is the best way to dip your toes into the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

    In This Article

    In this article, we answer the important topics to consider before starting your BJJ journey. Here is a taste of what is ahead:

    • Questions to Ask Before Signing up
    • Fundamental Positions to know of
    • How to spot a Good Gym
    • Tips on Starting Jiu-Jitsu
    • How to Prepare for Your First Class

    how to get started in BJJ

    5 Questions to Ask Before Signing Up

    • Is this a sport I am willing to put my heart into:

      Excelling in any martial art takes time, discipline, motivation, and endurance. Your Jiu-Jitsu career is a marathon, not a sprint.

      It is important to understand that to exceed in BJJ, you have to be committed to the art.

      This means you may have to sacrifice some time with friends or family to pursue your endeavor.

      Before signing up to learn Jiu-Jitsu, ask yourself if you have the time and discipline to keep moving forward even when things get rough.

    • What are my goals in the sport of Jiu-Jitsu?

      It is essential to ask yourself why you are getting into martial arts in the first place.

      The answer to this question will directly affect your training and motivation. A practitioner that wants to be a world champion is going to train at a different pace than a grappler who just wants to lose some weight.

      If you want to make it big in the sport of Jiu-Jitsu, you will be training constantly almost every single day. If you are an average grappler that hops into class now and then to get some type of physical workout in, there isn’t a need to stress over getting into the dojo more than a couple times a week.

      Your training schedule, diet, and hydration level should all rely on your goals and aspirations.

    • Am I prepared to be at risk of injury:

      One of the sad truths of BJJ is that if you train long enough, you are inevitably going to get injured. Whether it be from an un-intentioned knee or an Armbar you tried to fight out of, experiencing pain is part of the process. Before signing up for a combat sport make sure to ask yourself; am I prepared to be injured? If you are worried about passing out, infected cuts, or even broken arms, maybe Jiu-Jitsu isn’t for you.

      1) Starting BJJ in your 30’s  or Starting BJJ in your 40’s (Plus)

     

    • Will I have time to train?

      The majority of Jiu-Jitsu practitioners in 2023 are over the age of 25. This means that most of them have part or full-time jobs that they have to rely on to feed themselves or their family. For many grapplers, finding time to train before or after work is extremely difficult. You want to make sure that you can consistently come in to train a few days a week. If you look at BJJ as more than a hobby, do your best to find time 5-6 days a week to get some rolls in. Consistency is key! Make sure can train enough to reach your goals and aspirations.

    • Do I have enough money to commit to the sport?

      Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can be an expensive hobby. Not only will you have to pay a membership fee for your dojo, but you will also have to buy your own equipment which is very pricy. A typical Gi can cost you anywhere from eighty to two hundred dollars. A rash guard set costs around one hundred to one hundred forty dollars. Additionally, signing up for tournaments can be extremely pricy costing up to one hundred and twenty-five dollars to get registered. All of these costs add up fast. It is important to be in a good financial situation before you commit to the sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

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    Can You Start Jiu-Jitsu at Any Age?

    Of course! One of the incredible things about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is that BJJ practitioners can be of any age.

    There are children under the age of five and even adults over the age of 60 that thoroughly enjoy the sport.

    Although aged practitioners may have trouble competing, they still have the ability to walk into a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class and learn new techniques. The BJJ community is extremely welcoming to anyone who begins to train in the martial art whether you’re a man women, kid, or adult!

    No matter what the age, the sport of Jiu-Jitsu is for everyone!

    Jiu-Jitsu For Beginners: The BJJ Fundamental Positions To Learn First

    The fundamentals of BJJ are extremely important for new practitioners to learn, they are the base foundation of your whole game and they will always be there to fall back on when you need them. So what fundamental positions should you focus on first?

    1. Standing position:

      It is extremely important to be comfortable on your feet in the sport of Jiu-Jitsu. Every match of every tournament you go to will have you standing up when the fight starts.

      Although guard pulling is an option, it is nice to know a few takedowns you can rely on right as the match starts.

      Not only will takedowns give you two points, but they typically land you in dominant positions allowing you to attack multiple submissions of your choice.

      Do not neglect the stand-up game when you first start your Jiu-Jitsu training.

    2. Guard:

      As a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, you should focus on having a rounded-out set of skills that you can fall back on in any scenario.

      Guard is an extremely important position that must be learned to excel in the sport.

      New athletes may be overwhelmed by the amount of guards there are to learn and practice. The best way to go about learning how to play from these positions is to pick a few styles that you enjoy and stick with them. Eventually, your guard will branch off and you will find new styles that can be applied and used during your rolls.

    3. Side Control:

      Having the ability to attack from top-side control and escape from the bottom is extremely useful during live rounds and matches.

      There are plenty of submissions that can be used when you have someone in side control. Kimuras, chokes, and even straight Armbars are easily accessible from this dominant position. It is important to learn how to attack from side control. You will be using the position for the rest of your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu career.

      As for escaping, there are plenty of ways to simply and effectively escape someone’s side control. It is a matter of drilling these escapes and practicing them during live rounds to become fast and fluid.

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    How to find a BJJ gym in your local area

    There are a few ways that you can find good local gyms in your area.

    The most obvious strategy is to use the internet. It is super easy to hop online and search for BJJ gyms near you. It is important to read reviews and try free classes before committing to one dojo that looks good online.

    Steps

    • Search for “bjj + your city + your state” in your favorite search engine

    • Look for a website with images, location, and schedule

    Another simple way to find good gyms near you is to ask a friend. With the rising of social media, it is super easy to keep in contact with people who have similar interests. Ask a Jiu-Jitsu friend online or in person what gym they go to and consider trying out there!

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    How to Know if you are at a good gym

    With so many options nowadays, it is not that difficult to find a good gym near you. There are a couple of things to look for when trying to find the best in your area.

    1. Teammates That Challenge You

      The most important thing to look for in a Jiu-Jitsu club is high-level teammates that are going to challenge you during roles. Experience has shown that the best way to improve in any martial art is to challenge yourself to go up against your more experienced teammates consistently. Even if you are losing most of your rolls, every match is a learning experience and a new opportunity to pick up some fresh moves

    2. Good Coaches:

      Having a solid mentor in a Jiu-Jitsu dojo can be extremely beneficial for competitive athletes who want to excel in their sport.

      Even for those who don’t compete often, good coaches will not only push you to your limits but will also know the right process to take you from a white belt through to your black belt.

      Practicing Jiu-Jitsu with the help of a good mentor is a surefire way to progress in the sport.

    3. Excellent facility and staff:

      Another important aspect of a gym is its hospitality. If the owner and the staff are hostile, you most likely do not want to train at their gym.

      You want to find a dojo that respects you and helps you grow as a person.

      Along with that, making sure that you’re practicing Jiu-Jitsu in a clean and sanitary environment is essential.

      You are signing up for a grappling martial art. Typically, in close combat sports such as BJJ and Wrestling, skin diseases spread rapidly.

      It is important to make sure you are grappling on clean mats in a clean facility.

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    Four Tips To Start Jiu-Jitsu

    Diving into the deep water of BJJ can be a little intimidating when you first start checking it out. There are hundreds of gyms, techniques, and competitions around the world, so where should you begin?

    1. Do your research:

      Before you start training, it is suggested that you research more about what you are getting yourself into. Understand that Jiu-Jitsu is a grappling martial art and is not like a regular sport. BJJ practitioners can be severely injured practicing or competing in their fights. Make sure to fully understand the main aspects of the martial art before signing up at a local gym.

    2. Do not buy expensive equipment at first:

      You shouldn’t be showing up to your first BJJ class in a $250 gi set with the newest duffle bag from your favorite brand.

      When you begin your BJJ journey, it is suggested that you buy fairly cheap yet reliable gear just in case the sport ends up not being for you.

      No one wants to drop hundreds of dollars on equipment just to let it sit in their closet for years to come.

    3. Do not get too frustrated: Jiu-Jitsu can be an extremely technical and difficult martial art to learn. There are going to be many instances where you find yourself stuck on a plateau. A plateau in sports is recognized as an instance in time when you feel no progress is being made. These halts in progress can be extremely demotivating and frustrating. Although these challenging feelings are inevitable for committed athletes, it is important to not get too frustrated during your training sessions. Here are a few quick ways to break out of your plateau.

    4. Start training with a friend: Starting to practice Jiu-Jitsu with a friend has an incredible amount of benefits. For one, having a friend train with you means that you will be held accountable for being lazy. Everyone gets lazy now and then. Maybe you’re making up excuses so you don’t have to go to practice. A good friend will call you out on those excuses and encourage you to come to practice. A good friend will make training a more enjoyable experience overall. Having a buddy that you can hang out with and talk to during practice helps keep your motivation up as well. Although talking during class is not always bad, chatting too much can decrease your productivity and progress. Don’t restrain yourself from talking but keep in mind that you are in the Dojo to train Jiu-Jitsu, not to talk to your friends. Additionally, having a friend to train with will make you more comfortable and outgoing on the mat. Everyone knows how scary it is to try a new hobby alone. You may feel as if you are the only one in the room that doesn’t understand what’s going on.

    Cross train:

    Cross-training is one of the easiest ways to escape your inevitable plateau in the sport of BJJ.

    Practicing different sports will allow you to take a break from the repetitive technique and drilling that comes with practicing Jiu-Jitsu. Not only that but cross-training has been proven to be beneficial for BJJ practitioner’s techniques.

    Many world-level athletes practice or have practiced other martial arts including wrestling, Judo, and even Muay Thai.

    These sports all have techniques and/or movements that can be beneficial to your skill set in BJJ.

    When you are struggling to find motivation in Jiu-Jitsu, train and practice in other martial arts until that motivation returns.

    Switch it up during practice:

    If you are constantly drilling the same, fundament moves over and over again every day, there is no doubt that you will get burnt out of the sport. Make sure that you are enjoying yourself during training sessions; Jiu-Jitsu is all about having fun. Try a new, flashy technique or roll with teammates you don’t usually train with. Anything to get you out of the hamster wheel that BJJ can be.

    Adjust your game:

    In the sport of Jiu-Jitsu, practitioners typically fall into two categories. There are guard pullers and there are stand-up/passing players.

    Ideally, you should be practicing both styles regularly. If you don’t, you are more likely to feel stuck and trapped instead of excited and motivated. If you find yourself in a plateau, try switching it up and practicing the other side of BJJ. If you’re a practitioner who only plays guard, consider learning some takedowns and guard passes. Not only will this increase your overall understanding of the sport, but practicing the other side of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu will ensure that you do not get too stuck in one mindset while training at your dojo.

    Take a Break:

    Sometimes as an athlete, you may just need a break. Sports have the ability to allow you to thrive, they also have the ability to corrode your spirit. If you have tried cross-training and nothing is working, consider taking a break from martial arts for a while. Take a break and spend some time with family and friends. There’s no shame in taking some time off in your sport. If you are experiencing burnout, consider taking some time for yourself to relax. Come back to Jiu-Jitsu when you feel ready

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    What Should I Do to Prepare Myself?

    There are plenty of ways to prepare yourself before starting to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

    1. Get in shape:

      Although it is recommended, getting into shape is not mandatory. Thousands of white belts start taking Jiu-Jitsu classes in order to lose weight.

      With that being said, technique and progress will come a lot quicker if your body is in good shape. Jiu-Jitsu is a tough sport, there are going to be times during matches when you are dead tired. Those sprints on the track and those hours lifting weights in the gym will come in handy during tough situations.

    2. Research technique:

      Before stepping on the mats for your first BJJ class, consider researching fundamental techniques that are likely to be taught at your dojo.

      The more you study and watch films, the easier the technique will come to you. Many high-level athletes research new ways to attack their favorite techniques from different positions.

      For instance, if a grappler likes to transfer from a Triangle to a Straight Armbar, watching footage and researching could help them find new techniques to practice such as the Triangle to Kimura setup or the Triangle sweep.

      Taking in information about the sport of Jiu-Jitsu is never a bad idea before walking into your dojo

    The Average Cost Of The BJJ Classes

    On Grapplers Graveyard, we have a complete article that can be found about the cost of Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Go ahead and read that (source).

    The average BJJ gym membership is going to cost around $140 per month. It is going to cost you more than a standard gym membership. Every BJJ gym will be different with what their membership offers and can get you but most the time you are getting an unlimited amount of classes with your membership.

    What gear do you need to get started in BJJ?

    Uniform: Gi

    The Gi is one of the most important pieces of equipment in Jiu-Jitsu, if you’re looking for your first Kimono, consider buying a Gold BJJ Gi! Gold BJJ sells high-quality equipment for lower than low prices!

    Rash Guards and Shorts

    If your looking to buy a nice rash guard set that’s affordable and stylish, consider looking into Future Kimonos! Their products are a little on the expensive side but worth every dollar. Their high-quality material and slick design ensure that you look and feel good on the mats!

    Body Hygiene

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    Always Improve Your Jiu-Jitsu

    One of the beautiful attributes of Jiu-Jitsu is that there is no end to your learning. You could spend 10 lifetimes training and there would still be a thousand more techniques to discover. The easiest way to improve your Jiu-Jitsu is to stay consistent and pay attention during class. If you are listening to what your coaches have to say, applying it during live rounds, and showing up consistently to class, Your progression in the sport is going to skyrocket.

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    Things that will change after Training

    Even after your first BJJ class, you will notice things about your body and mindset will have changed. Jiu-Jitsu has so many positive benefits it would be a shame to miss out on them.

    Transformation of Your State of Mind

    Jiu-Jitsu, like any other combat sport, can be very tough on the mind. There will be times when you are in a uncomfortable position and you feel like tapping out, but you have to endure and keep fighting. This applies not only to BJJ, but to life as well. There will be plenty of times in life when you feel like you want to quit, whether it is a job, a relationship, or anything else. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu teaches you to endure those dark and uncomfortable times to make it through till the end of the fight.

    Transformation of your body

    The first thing that you will notice after your initial BJJ class is how tired and sore you are. This is very common among all belt levels. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu may be tough in the moment, but over time the sport will make you stronger, faster, and a better all-around athlete. The high-paced stand-up game matched with slow methodical submissions makes for an incredible show. The best of the best have strong bodies from years of training and practicing their technique.

    Transformation of your mood

    Nowadays, many kids and adults that suffer from anxiety and depression look to substance abuse as a vice in order to escape their dark thoughts. Although those vices may feel good at the moment, over a long period, drugs, alcohol, video games, and T.V will never make you feel whole. Jiu-Jitsu is a sport that makes you proud of who you are. It surrounds you with a good community of people who will care and listen to your problems. Sports like BJJ are incredibly healthy vices that will benefit your mood in incredible ways.

    Tips for Beginning Jiu-Jitsu

    Learn to Survive, Don’t Quit In the First Month

    The sport of Jiu-Jitsu requires consistency and dedication. The learning curve of BJJ is tough. Sometimes it you can get it caught under your neck or twisting your arm. But continue to pursue this path through its trial and tribulations and you will be rewarded not only physically, but mentally and spiritually as well.

    Arrive early if you are signing up before class

    Similar to a job interview, you want to make a good impression when entering your new gm. Keep in mind, these are the people you are going to be hanging around for hours every week. Arriving early to get signed up is a common courtesy and shows that you are excited and prepared to train!

    What to expect the day after your first BJJ class

    When you wake up the day after your first BJJ class, it is likely that your whole body is going to be sore. Unlike conventional bodybuilding, Jiu-Jitsu is a whole-body exercise that tests not only your physical strength but your stamina as well.

    What Should You Expect After Your First Month of BJJ Training?

    After training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for over a month, you should begin to see increases in your strength and stamina along with your mental attitude. After you get over the learning curve that comes with beginning a new sport, BJJ becomes an exciting game to test your wits and physicality.

    Jiu-Jitsu is an incredibly unique sport filled with generations of techniques to learn. Have fun and enjoy the process, remember to be safe and enjoy the journey.

    Happy Rolling!

    FAQ

    I’m 13. Is it too early to start BJJ?

    You are never too young to start BJJ! Most of the highest-level athletes start at a young age such as yours.

    Is BJJ Twice A Week Enough to Make Good Progress?

    It depends on your goals. If you are looking to go to practice to lose weight and learn something new, you will most likely make good progress by going two days a week. If you are planning on being a competitive athlete, consider getting in the dojo more than a couple of times a week.

    What Is The Best Way to Practice BJJ if You’re Over 50?

    Take it easy and soak in information. Don’t try to keep up with the young athletes that are competing around the world. Practice at a pace your body can handle. Drill and train often but make sure to take time off to recover and rest.

    Can I Start in my 30s?

    As stated previously, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is for everyone at any age! It doesn’t matter if you are 5 or 65, any age is able to come in the room and start grappling. With that being said, make sure that you are aware of your body’s physical capabilities. Start off slow and don’t overdue anything!

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    Table of Contents

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    In this article, we will look at the differences between cold shower vs ice bath and cold plunges. While they both are ways to practice cold therapy, cold plunges, and ice baths are far superior to just taking a cold shower. Cold showers are a great way to save money without having to pay over $1,000 for a dedicated cold plunge device but it really is just getting your feet wet in the practice of cold water immersion.

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    Cold Shower vs Ice Bath: What is the Difference?

    Taking a cold shower is easily the most affordable way to get the benefits of cold exposure. It doesn’t get much easier than just being able to turn on your shower and hoping in to start reaping the benefits associated with the practice.

    An ice bath, or better known as a cold plunge, on the other hand is a much different experience when compared to just a cold shower. The goal of an ice bath is to fully submerge your body in cold water up to your neck. These cold plunges are typically controlled by a dedicated chilling unit that sets the water to the desired temperature. If you ask us, cold showers is the baby step you take before diving into the practice of submerging into a cold plunge.

    The recovery benefits from a cold plunge or an ice bath is much greater than a cold shower because the muscles you are actively trying to recover are getting fully submerged instead of the occasional impact from the cold water hitting your body.

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    Temperature Differences

    Waking up and jumping into a cold shower will give you the same shocking experience that a cold plunge will give you but at a lower level of intensity. Cold shower temperatures are typically around 55°F to 60°F. Cold plunges or ice baths on the other hand are typically around 45°F or even much more below this.

    Then control you have with a cold plunge device (that has a chilling unit) is far greater than what you will get with just hoping in a cold shower. Yes, you can still reap the benefits from cold exposure through a cold shower (and save money) but at the end of the day, if you are looking to take recovery seriously and plan on adding cold therapy to the mix, you should be using ice baths or dedicated cold plunge devices.

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    Cold water immersion is an excellent way for athletes to let their muscles recover and help them reduce inflammation. We use the term ‘athlete’ loosely since in today’s world just about anyone can (and should) be training like an athlete. There are so many ways to stay active today that it is impossible to sit here and say this practice is only for the elite-level athletes of the world.

    Cold therapy is for everyday people just like you and I and today we can start reaping the benefits!

    cold water therapy, cold water immersion therapy temperature control

    Controllability of a Cold Plunge

    Besides sitting in a dedicated tub, the biggest difference between cold showers and ice baths is the fact that you have much more control when over water temperature with a cold plunge. The specific benefits of coldwater immersion really start to kick in when the water is sitting below 45°F. here is no way you are going to be able to activate brown fat or break thermal layers with a cold shower, you have to be plunging in a dedicated device to really boost your recovery time.

    Everyone’s bodies will react differently to cold plunging initially but over time you get used to the practice and start to really find ways to push your limits. The colder you get the water in a cold plunge the faster you are able to see the benefits start arising in your life.

    ice cold ice bath or ice cold cold plunge

    What is an Ice Bath?

    Ice baths are super simple to explain. Ice baths are a steel tub that is typically filled with cold water and ice. Athletes have been using ice baths for decades now as a way to increase recovery time, reduce inflammation, boost energy levels, and increase blood flow throughout the body.

    Ice Baths Are Better than Cold Showers for Workout Recovery

    If money is not an issue in the equation, ice baths are better than cold showers by leaps and bounds. The difference is really night and day. Now, let’s say you are one of the millions of people who does not have the ability to purchase a cold plunge tub today, that’s fine you still have some options at your disposal.

    If you are serious about cold plunging and want to skip over the cold showers, you can always find a local wellness center that has a cold plunge. This is great because you are supporting a local business and still getting the real experience.

    Okay, so let’s say there is no local business by you that has a cold plunge, no problem. You can always go the route of doing a makeshift cold plunge in your home. We have a dedicated post on our website on how to cold plunge at home on any budget that you should read and check out.

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    Are Ice Cold Baths Safe?

    Yes, generally speaking, ice baths and cold plunges are completely safe. Now, those who are pregnant, have underlying health conditions or are elderly and may be susceptible to sickness should seek medical guidance from a professional.

    cold shower vs ice bath

    Ice Baths Provide Fat Loss and Metabolism Benefits

    We have an entire article on our website dedicated to talking about brown fat activating while you are submerged in the cold temperatures of an ice bath. In a nutshell, our bodies have three types of fats, brown, beige, and white. Brown fat’s main job is to produce heat and keep our bodies warm when exposed to cold temperatures.

    Brown fat burns calories if it is activated and in order to do that we cold plunge.

    Ice Baths Help Support Blood Circulation

    Ice baths are so cold that your blood vessels constrict while in the water. When this constriction takes place your body works extra hard to keep itself warm. This is when thermogenesis starts to take place in your body and ultimately you start to burn bits of fat while plunging.

    After getting out of the water you will notice that your body quickly warms back up after not being exposed to the cold temperatures of the water that you were just in. Inside your body, your blood vessels are now starting to go back to normal size allowing for a greater feeling of circulation of blood throughout the body.

    Ice Baths Help Soothe Muscle Soreness

    Ice baths have been a common practice for athletic programs around the world, it is not a surprise that the practice would eventually make its way to the masses. Ice baths, just like cold plunging, can be used as a way to recover faster from physical exercise or activities that you find yourself indulged in.

    Joint pain, muscle soreness, and nagging injuries are all common in our sport of choice (jiu-jitsu) but I am 100% sure that the sport you do as a full-fledged adult has common traits. Whether you run on a court, play tennis, or possibly even golf, cold plunging can and will help with any kind of muscle soreness or fatigue that you may experience.

    cold shower vs ice bath

    Tips for Getting Started With Cold Water Therapy

    It is all in the breath

    The most powerful thing about cold plunging is that it is a practice that almost works three things in one. You are combining conscious breathing, meditation, and building a positive mental attitude when you decide to jump into that cold water.

    The importance of deep, long, and complete exhales should not be overlooked. This will help you slow down your heart rate.

    Do Your Plunge Early

    It is best to practice cold plunging first thing in the morning since the practice itself releases energy-boosting neurotransmitters and adrenaline. If you do this too late in the day it may interrupt your sleep!

    Music and Timers

    Put on some music or a timer. Try to sit in the tub for one minute and work your way to a longer time!

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    The benefit of Cold Showers

    It is said that cold showers have a number of health benefits very similar to that of a cold plunge. Now, it is very important to note, cold showers are not cold plunges and do not get you the same results. If you want to take this one step further and reap the most benefits of cold water exposure you should consider getting a cold plunge tub for yourself.

    List of Benefits of Cold Showers

    • Boost Alertness

    • Reduce Muscle Soreness

    • Boost Immune System

    The list is pretty short as you can see.

    There is no mention of brown fat activation, a reduced level of inflammation, weight loss, fat loss, or an increase of blood flow through the body like you would see if you started a dedicated cold plunge practice.

    people aslo asked about cold plunging

    People Also Asked

    Is it OK to cold plunge every day?

    Yes, it is okay to cold plunge every day. Athletes do take their recovery seriously and on most days they are taking ice baths or cold plunging after their exercise.

    Is it better to take a shower before or after an ice bath?

    If you get done with a workout it is best to shower before you step into a cold plunge. While the devices do filter and keep the water clean, you may have other people going in the water after you. At the end of the day, it is a preference thing but it would be smart to shower before.

    Is A cold shower as good as an ice bath?

    This depends but we will stand by our answer of saying no, cold showers are not just as good as an actual ice bath or cold plunge. The experience of submerging your body in cold water inside a cold plunge or ice bath is completely different and you would only know if you have the experience of doing all three of these practices. Cold showers are great for the purpose that they provide but it does not compare that well to a cold plunge device.

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    Do you get cauliflower ear from BJJ? No, not necessarily but you can get it over time. Cauliflower ear is not a disease you get from training, it is a very common ear deformity that occurs for most combat sports athletes after their ear cartilage has suffered a significant amount of damage. The ear swells up a bit and gets red but after a while, it deflates back to its normal shape, once the cartilage hardens back up that is known as cauliflower ear.

    Do You Get Cauliflower Ear From BJJ?

    Not necessarily, but yes you can get cauliflower ear from grappling or doing Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Cauliflower ear is the ear deformity that happens after the ear cartridge has been damaged through contact. Typically, people who start training Brazilian jiu-jitsu, wrestle, or do MMA have cauliflower ear because their ears have suffered some form of damage while on the mats.

    It is a very common thing for grapplers and boxers to have cauliflower ears. If you see someone out and about in everyday life with a deformed ear, they probably trained in some martial art and have done so for some time.

    jiu jitsu

    Advice to Jiu Jitsu Parents: How to Prevent Cauliflower Ear in Children

    The best way to prevent cauliflower ear is to train with dedicated headgear on when you start to feel a flare-up happening. It will be very noticeable when your ear is damaged from direct contact. Typically the affected area starts to swell up, is red, or is very tender to touch.

    When you have these symptoms, chances are your ear has a hematoma or has been damaged to some capacity. It will not affect your ears by any means but if you want to prevent the issue from getting worse it is best to go off and buy some headgear. After the swelling has gone down a bit, if you really want to make sure that cauliflower ear does not form get some ear magnets to flatten out the surface.

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    do you get cauliflower ear from bjj? treat cauliflower ear

    How To Prevent Cauliflower Ears in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

    You can prevent cauliflower ear by either not training as much or by just wearing headgear when you start to feel the sensitivity of your ears increasing. There is no shame in putting headgear on and training that way, many people avoid wearing headgear because it “looks silly” but honestly I say who cares?

    I personally do not want my ears to be torn apart so I choose to wear headgear when I feel soreness in my ears, if you are in the same camp as me just opt to wear them.

    Causes: What causes cauliflower ear?

    The main cause for someone to get cauliflower ear is for them to first sustain a good blow directly to the ear. Since the ear is just cartilage, it never hurts to start with. Typically after some time has gone by after the initial damage that was taken the ear starts to swell, get red, or become tender this is how you know you are developing cauliflower ear. This is known as a hematoma, the actual “cauliflower ear” term comes after the swelling has gone down and the ear cartilage that was damaged begins to heal and harden.

    Typically when the hardening happens the ear looks a little more deformed than it normally would.

    How long does it take to get BJJ cauliflower ear?

    Well, it could happen pretty fast. My cauliflower ear developed over a two-month period when I was really training hard, I think I was up to 5 or 6 times a week and that was when the ear trauma was at an all-time high.

    Some people have tough ears and may never develop cauliflower ear. Some of you may get it quicker than me but even I have pretty sensitive ears. Preventing cauliflower ear entirely while grappling is not easy, it kind of comes with the territory. Most people who wrestle or train Brazilian jiu-jitsu wear their cauliflower ear with pride, it is like a badge of honor.

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    How To Drain Cauliflower Ear At Home Step-By-Step

    Step 1: Cleaning the area around the ear to prevent infection.

    Step 2: Numbing the ear with a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort or you can use an ice pack

    Step 3: Make a small incision in the ear to access the accumulated fluid or blood.

    Step 4: Draining the fluid or blood using a syringe or other appropriate method.

    Step 5: Applying pressure or using compression to prevent re-accumulation.

    Step 6: Providing aftercare instructions, such as keeping the ear clean and potentially using a dressing or bandage. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

    5 Things You Need To Drain Your Cauliflower Ears

    To drain cauliflower ears, you would typically need the following items:

    1. Sterile needle or syringe: This needle is used to puncture blood vessels in the ear and drain the accumulated fluid or blood.

    2. Antiseptic solution: To clean the area before and after the procedure to minimize the risk of infection.

    3. Sterile gauze or cotton pads: Apply pressure to drain and absorb any fluid or blood that is drained.

    4. Gloves: To maintain proper hygiene and prevent contamination during the procedure.

    5. Antibiotic ointment: Apply after draining the ear to help prevent infection and promote healing.

    Bonus: Get yourself a pair of Caulibuds cauliflower ear magnets. These magnets are the best on the market to helping you prevent cauliflower ear from forming and help minimize ear drainage. Made with superior quality silicone for optimal compression you can say goodbye to that ear drainage!

    Safety Tips When Draining Cauliflower Ears on Your Own

    1. Sterilization: Ensure that all tools, including needles or syringes, are properly sterilized before use to minimize the risk of infection.

    2. Cleanliness: Thoroughly clean the affected area and your hands with an antiseptic solution before attempting to drain the pus drainage cauliflower ear.

    3. Technique: Use a sterile needle or syringe to gently puncture and drain the ear and allow the fluid or blood from open wound to drain. Avoid further incision or bleeding by applying excessive pressure or force.

    4. Hygiene: Maintain proper hygiene throughout the procedure by wearing gloves and using sterile gauze or cotton pads to absorb any fluid or blood.

    5. Follow-up care: After draining the cauliflower ear, apply an antibiotic ointment and cover the area with a sterile dressing to prevent infection. Monitor the healing process and seek medical attention if any complications arise. Buy some cauliflower ear magnets too if you want your ear to stay in shape as long as possible.

    There are so many videos you can find on YouTube or even on TikTok of people draining cauliflower ears. Personally, I get a bit squeamish around those types of things and would rather not watch those kinds of videos but for those that don’t mind some of them will be attached here.

    It should be noted that if you are going to drain your ear on your own you should have someone wit you to either help or guide you through it. Typically, an athlete will have their coach just drain their ear but it is totally up to you how you go about it.

    How are cauliflower ears treated?

    The swelling typically goes down by itself when you have a cauliflower ear but some people’s ears will balloon. Typically when the ear swells massively after taking serious damage it would be smart to have someone drain the blood buildup rather than waiting for it to heal on its own. This process can be painful and it is recommended that you either have someone experienced drain your ear or go to the doctor to get it done.

    You can entirely drain your ear by yourself but I know when I tried doing it myself it was not a very pleasurable experience. I just had a friend drain the blood and it was fine afterwards.

    Is it possible to prevent cauliflower ear?

    Yes, it is entirely possible to prevent cauliflower ear. I have a little bit on my right ear right in the middle, kind of close to the ear hole and it is barely noticeable. When it first started to come in it was very uncomfortable to lay down on a pillow on that side of my body but after the swelling went down my ear kind of went back to normal.

    I wear headgear anytime I feel sensitivity to either of my ears because I do not want my ears to become blobs of cheese. If you wear headgear when you start to get it and try your best not to bang it on people when rolling you should be good. Most people really won’t listen to that advice but for those that want to keep their ear in tact it seriously works like a charm, I have zero issues to this point.

    bjj cauliflower ear, bjj cauliflower ear protective head gear

    Will headgear prevent a cauliflower ear in BJJ?

    Yes, ear protection from headgear will help prevent cauliflower ear. If you are looking to avoid having ears that are all mangled it is wise to buy a good pair of wrestling headgear. My personal favorite at the ones from Matman, they are extremely comfortable around the ears, don’t slip around while training, and do not have slide under the chin.

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    With more and more Dagestani and sambo-based fighters like ex-UFC world champion Khabib Nurmagomedov entering the MMA game, cauliflower ears have started getting a lot more attention.

    This abnormality formed on the skin around the ears of these elite grapplers is the result of intense training and restricted blood flow supply from punches.

    The following piece tells you all about it:

    First off, What is Cauliflower ear?

    Cauliflower ear or hematoma auris is essentially an abnormality formed in the ears if continuously bent or struck. This happens because blood supply gets restricted and collects between the cartilage and skin covering the ears.

    If not treated within 7 to 10 days, cauliflower ears can become a permanent deformity. Although it is usually harmless with little to no symptoms or painful feelings, wrestlers have commonly faced slight hearing loss with cauliflower ears.

    What is a hematoma?

    A hematoma is basically just a strong bruise that allows for blood flow and supply to become restricted and collect into a pool between the underlying cartilage, and the skin. This creates a lumpy, rubbery, and spongy feel in the skin around the area of the hematoma.

    In most cases a Hematoma is treatable. However, it is not a cause for concern as you feel little to no symptoms or pain.

    As for the cause, trauma is the main cause of a hematoma. Trauma can be the result of a car accident, fall, broken bones, gunshot wound, head injury, or just excessive combat sports training like sparring.

    How to get cauliflower ear

    You get cauliflower ears when your blood flow is restricted in your ear and a lumpy pool of blood collects and forms in your pinna which is your outer ear.

    This could be the result of a plethora of injuries, anything from a hard punch or continued striking from contact sports like boxing or some sort of combat sport like mixed martial arts.

    The easiest way to get cauliflower ear is by repeatedly subjecting your ears to trauma, such as from contact sports like wrestling or boxing. When the ear gets hit or compressed, the blood vessels in the ear can burst, leading to the accumulation of blood and fluid.

    Over time, this can cause the cartilage in the ear to become deformed and develop the characteristic cauliflower-like shape and appearance. It’s important to protect your ears with proper headgear and seek medical attention if you experience any ear injuries to prevent the development of the cauliflower ear.

    What is the treatment for Cauliflower ear?

    To treat cauliflower ear, it’s best to seek medical attention from a healthcare professional. They may drain the accumulated blood and fluid from the ear using a syringe or make a small incision to remove the fluid. In some cases, they may also use compression techniques or splints to help reshape the ear.

    It’s important to address cauliflower ears promptly to prevent further complications and to ensure proper healing, if you do not begin treating cauliflower ears ASAP, you can risk permanent damage to your outer ear.

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    How long does it take to recover?

    The recovery time for cauliflower ear can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the treatment received. Generally, it can take several weeks to a few months for the ear to fully recover.

    It’s important to follow the treatment plan prescribed by a healthcare professional, which may include draining the fluid, compression, and splinting.

    Additionally, avoiding further trauma to the ear during the recovery period is crucial to allow the tissue in the ear to heal properly. Patience, rest and proper care are key in facilitating a successful recovery from the cauliflower ear.

    Does Cauliflower ear hurt?

    Cauliflower ear can be quite painful, especially during the initial stages when the blood and fluid accumulate in the ear. The pressure and swelling can cause discomfort and tenderness. Additionally, if left untreated, the deformed cartilage can cause ongoing pain and sensitivity.

    It’s important to address cauliflower ear promptly to alleviate pain and prevent further complications. Seeking medical attention and following the recommended treatment plan can help manage the pain and promote healing.

    how to get cauliflower ear

    What are the symptoms of Cauliflower ear?

    Symptoms of cauliflower ear include swelling, redness, fluid buildup, and tenderness in the affected ear. The ear may feel warm to the touch and appear distorted or misshapen due to the accumulation of blood and fluid. In some cases, there may be bruising or discoloration.

    The affected tissue and ear may also feel heavier than usual. It’s important to recognize these symptoms and seek medical attention to prevent further complications and promote proper tissue healing.

    If I suspect that I am getting cauliflower ear should I go to the Doctor?

    If you suspect that you are developing cauliflower ear, it is highly recommended to seek medical attention from a doctor. They will be able to properly assess your condition, provide appropriate treatment, and help you prevent cauliflower ear.

    Early intervention is key to prevent further complications and ensure proper healing. Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your ear, the earlier you start treating cauliflower ear, the less you risk permanent damage.

    What are the potential complications of untreated cauliflower ear?

    If cauliflower ear is left untreated, it can lead to several potential complications. The accumulated blood and fluid can cause the cartilage to become permanently deformed, resulting in a distorted and misshapen outer ear. This can not only affect the appearance of the ear but also lead to ongoing pain and discomfort.

    Additionally, untreated cauliflower ear increases the risk of infection as bacteria can enter the open wound or through the damaged skin. In severe cases, the infection can spread to other parts of the body and cause serious health complications. It is important to address cauliflower ear promptly to prevent these potential complications and ensure proper healing.

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    People Also Asked

    What is the fastest way to get cauliflower ear?

    Cauliflower ear typically occurs as a result of repeated trauma or injury to the ear, such as from contact sports like wrestling or boxing.

    However, it’s important to note that cauliflower ear is not something that should be sought after or intentionally caused. It can lead to complications and long-term damage to the ear. It’s always best to prioritize your health and well-being.

    Is there a way to get cauliflower ears?

    Intentionally trying to get cauliflower ear is not recommended. It’s important to prioritize your health and well-being, and intentionally causing injury to your ear can lead to complications and long-term damage.

    Cauliflower ear typically occurs as a result of repeated trauma or injury, such as from contact sports. However, it’s not something that should be sought after or intentionally caused.

    How hard do you have to get hit to get cauliflower ear?

    Cauliflower ear typically occurs as a result of repeated trauma or injury to the ear, such as from contact sports like wrestling or boxing.

    The severity of the impact required to cause cauliflower ear can vary depending on factors such as the force of the blow, the frequency of the trauma, and individual susceptibility.

    However, it’s important to prioritize your health and well-being, and intentionally subjecting yourself to hard hits can lead to complications and long-term damage. It’s always best to engage in sports and activities with proper safety measures and wear protective gear.

    Even for athletes, if you have the goal of becoming one of the best elite combat sports athletes, keeping your health and body at its A game is necessary to ensure longevity in your journey.

    Is it gross or unappealing?

    Cauliflower ear is a physical condition that some people may find unappealing due to its appearance. It is characterized by a swollen and deformed ear caused by repeated trauma or injury.

    However, it’s important to remember that beauty and attractiveness are subjective, and what one person may find unappealing, another may not. Many fans link wrestlers and fighters with cauliflower ears to being fierce and dangerous athletes.

    A prime example of this is undefeated former UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, or his successor, the current champ Islam Makhachev. Both are decorated and prominent legends and they have permanent cauliflower ear. Anyone with cauliflower ear is not to be messed with, especially if you’re a non-fighter!

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    Over the past few years, the cauliflower ear injury/ deformity has been gaining a lot of popularity. While others may find it gross, there are many who obsess over these ears. Athletes are considered tougher and stronger because of their scarred ear cartilage.

    Having an untreated cauliflower ear gives the visual effect of brute fierceness. Still, athletes are recommended to drain cauliflower ears as soon as possible to prevent any permanent damage from occurring. The following piece gives you important info regarding the draining of cauliflower ears:

    What Is Cauliflower Ear and What Causes It?

    Cauliflower ear or auricular hematoma is a condition characterized by a swollen and deformed appearance of the ear. It is caused by repeated trauma or injury to the ear, typically from activities such as contact sports like wrestling, boxing, or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

    The repeated impact can damage the ear cartilage and restrict blood flow, leading to fluid accumulation and the formation of scar tissue. Over time, if left untreated, the ear can become permanently deformed, resembling the shape of a cauliflower.

    Prompt medical attention and proper care are important to prevent and treat it

    How To Prevent Cauliflower Ears in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

    To prevent cauliflower ear or auricular hematoma in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, it’s important to take certain precautions.

    First, wearing well-fitted ear guards or headgear can provide protection and reduce the risk of injury. Additionally, practicing proper technique and avoiding excessive pressure on the ears during training can help minimize the chances of developing a cauliflower ear.

    If you do experience any trauma or swelling to the ear, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly to prevent further complications. Remember, prioritizing your safety and well-being is essential in any martial art.

    draining cauliflower ear at home
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    How To Recover From Cauliflower Ear

    To recover from cauliflower ear, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A healthcare professional can drain any accumulated fluid or blood from the affected area and provide appropriate treatment.

    Resting the injured ear and avoiding any further trauma or injury is crucial for the recovery process. Applying cold compresses and taking over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate discomfort and reduce swelling.

    It’s essential to follow the medical advice and care instructions provided by the healthcare professional to prevent permanent damage and ensure proper healing.

    6 Steps For Draining Cauliflower Ear at Home

    Step 1: Cleaning the area around the ear to prevent infection.

    Step 2: Numbing the ear with a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort or you can use an ice pack

    Step 3: Making a small incision in the ear to access the accumulated fluid or blood.

    Step 4: Draining the fluid or blood using a syringe or other appropriate method.

    Step 5: Applying pressure or using compression to prevent re-accumulation.

    Step 6: Providing aftercare instructions, such as keeping the ear clean and potentially using a dressing or bandage. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

    5 Things You Need To Drain Your Cauliflower Ears

    To drain cauliflower ears, you would typically need the following items:

    1. Sterile needle or syringe: This needle is used to puncture blood vessels in the ear and drain the accumulated fluid or blood.

    2. Antiseptic solution: To clean the area before and after the procedure to minimize the risk of infection.

    3. Sterile gauze or cotton pads: Apply pressure to drain and absorb any fluid or blood that is drained.

    4. Gloves: To maintain proper hygiene and prevent contamination during the procedure.

    5. Antibiotic ointment: Apply after draining the ear to help prevent infection and promote healing.

    Bonus: Get yourself a pair of Caulibuds cauliflower ear magnets. These magnets are the best on the market to helping you prevent cauliflower ear from forming and help minimize ear drainage. Made with superior quality silicone for optimal compression you can say goodbye to that ear drainage!

    How To Train BJJ While Your Cauliflower Ear Is Healing

    When your cauliflower ear is in the early stages of healing, it’s important to take precautions while training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to prevent further damage or discomfort. Here are some tips to train BJJ while your cauliflower ear is healing:

    1. Protect your ears: Make sure to wear appropriate ear protection, such as ear guards or headgear, to minimize the risk of further injury or aggravation to your cauliflower ear.

    2. Communicate with your training partners: Let your training partners know about your healing cauliflower ear so they can be mindful during training. Avoid putting excessive pressure on your ears or participating in activities that may have a direct impact on the affected area.

    3. Modify your training: During the healing process, consider modifying your training routine to avoid positions or techniques that put significant pressure on your ears. Focus on techniques that prioritize control and leverage rather than relying on heavy pressure.

    4. Be mindful of your body: Listen to your body and take breaks when needed. If you feel discomfort or pain in your cauliflower ear during training, it’s important to stop and assess the situation. Pushing through the pain may worsen the condition.

    5. Proper care and hygiene: Continue to clean and care for your cauliflower ear as recommended by a healthcare professional. Follow their instructions for cleaning, applying medication, and protecting the area during training.

    Remember, it’s crucial to prioritize your health and allow your cauliflower ear to heal properly. If you have any concerns or questions, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.

    draining cauliflower ear at home

    Safety Tips When Draining Cauliflower Ears on Your Own

    1. Sterilization: Ensure that all tools, including needles or syringes, are properly sterilized before use to minimize the risk of infection.

    2. Cleanliness: Thoroughly clean the affected area and your hands with an antiseptic solution before attempting to drain the pus drainage cauliflower ear.

    3. Technique: Use a sterile needle or syringe to gently puncture and drain the ear and allow the fluid or blood from open wound to drain. Avoid further incision or bleeding by applying excessive pressure or force.

    4. Hygiene: Maintain proper hygiene throughout the procedure by wearing gloves and using sterile gauze or cotton pads to absorb any fluid or blood.

    5. Follow-up care: After draining the cauliflower ear, apply an antibiotic ointment and cover the area with a sterile dressing to prevent infection. Monitor the healing process and seek medical attention if any complications arise.

    Buy some cauliflower ear magnets too if you want your ear to stay in shape as long as possible.

    It should be noted that these tips are solely for educational purposes only. It’s strongly advised and recommended to consult with a trained healthcare professional who can perform the procedure safely and provide appropriate care.

    Doing this yourself could lead you to end up with a permanent deformity or even a skin infection.

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    People Also Asked

    How long does it take to recover from cauliflower ear treatment?

    The recovery time for cauliflower ear treatment can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the chosen treatment method. Generally, it can take several weeks to a few months for the ear to fully recover.

    It’s important to follow the recommended treatment plan provided by a healthcare professional, which may include draining the ear, applying compression, and wearing protective gear.

    Additionally, practicing good ear hygiene and avoiding activities that may put excessive pressure on the ear can help promote faster healing. If you have any concerns or if the recovery process seems to be taking longer than expected, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

    When To See A Doctor About Cauliflower Ear Draining?

    If you’re considering draining cauliflower ear on your own, it’s important to note that it’s generally recommended to seek a medical professional or medical attention for this procedure.

    However, if you’re wondering when to get professional medical advice or see a doctor about cauliflower ear draining, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional if you experience any of the following:

    1. Severe pain: If you’re experiencing intense or worsening pain in the affected outer ear, it’s advisable to seek medical attention.

    2. Infection signs: If you notice signs of infection such as redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge from the ear, it’s important to see a doctor immediately.

    3. Hearing loss difficulties: If you’re experiencing any changes in your hearing, it’s best to have a medical professional evaluate your condition.

    4. Complications: If you attempt to drain the cauliflower ear on your own and encounter complications such as excessive bleeding or difficulty in the procedure, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

    What Happens If You Don’t Drain Your Cauliflower Ear?

    If you choose not to drain your cauliflower ear, it can lead to potential complications. The accumulation of blood or fluid in the ear can cause the underlying cartilage to become permanently deformed, resulting in the characteristic appearance of the cauliflower ear.

    This can affect the ear’s shape, symmetry, and function. Additionally, without drainage, the trapped fluid can increase the risk of infection and swelling, which can lead to further complications. It’s important to seek medical attention if you have cauliflower ear to prevent these long-term consequences and to receive appropriate treatment.

    Do Cauliflower Ears Go Away?

    Cauliflower ears do not go away on their own. Once the cartilage in the ear is damaged or deformed, it typically remains that way unless treated. Seeking medical attention and following the recommended treatment plan, which may include draining the ear and wearing protective gear, can help prevent further damage and promote healing.

    However, it’s important to note that the extent of recovery and the appearance of the ear may vary depending on the severity of the condition and the individual. Consulting with a healthcare professional can provide you with personalized advice and guidance for managing cauliflower ears.

    When Is It Too Late To Drain Cauliflower Ear?

    It’s never too late to seek medical attention for draining cauliflower ear. Whether you’ve recently developed the condition or it has been present for a while, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional. They can assess the severity of the cauliflower ear and determine the most appropriate course of action.

    While early intervention is generally recommended to prevent complications, medical treatment can still be beneficial even if some time has passed. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for an evaluation and guidance tailored to your specific situation.

    However, it should be noted that for most people, if not treated within 7-10 you are likely too late and will end up with some sort of permanent deformity or permanent disfigurement.

    Can I prevent cauliflower ear?

    To prevent cauliflower ear, it’s important to take certain precautions. When engaging in activities that pose a risk of ear injury, such as contact sports or combat sports, wearing protective headgear is crucial. This can help absorb impact and reduce the likelihood of cartilage damage therefore preventing cauliflower ear.

    Additionally, if you do experience trauma to the ear, seeking prompt medical attention and draining any accumulated blood or fluid can help prevent the development of the cauliflower ear. Being proactive about protecting your ears and seeking timely treatment can greatly reduce the risk of cauliflower ear.

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    Cauliflower ear, better known as wrestler’s ear, is an ear deformity that occurs after the ear cartilage has been damaged. When the ear is initially struck by force it develops an auricular hematoma. This auricular hematoma does swell and gets red initially but over time the swelling goes away and becomes hardened cartilage.

    Does Cauliflower Ear Hurt?

    After the cartridge has hardened in the ear after the initial impact cauliflower ear does not really hurt. The most painful part of getting cauliflower ear is the initial blow and dealing with the swelling that comes afterward.

    It is important to note that the term ‘cauliflower ear’ refers to when the ear cartilage is healed after the initial impact it had taken to cause swelling.

    What Is It, Causes, Treatment, and More

    What is Cauliflower ear?

    Cauliflower ear is the most common deformity in grappling-based martial arts like jiu-jitsu, judo, wrestling, and MMA. Cauliflower ear occurs when the ear canal is damaged by an excessive amount of impact.

    Cauliflower ear may occur when blood that collects in the ear canal after an injury isn’t drained properly or becomes infected.

    What Causes Cauliflower ear?

    Common causes of the ear deformity are just excessive impact to the ear cartridge from sports, such as wrestling, boxing, or mixed martial arts. Truthfully, cauliflower ear is not as gross as it sounds (or looks). All that our ear is made of is cartilage so when that cartilage gets damaged, blood flows to it making it look a little more puffy or sensitive to touch.

    Some people may get turned off when they initially see it but if you get it in the martial arts world, it is a badge of honor.

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    What is the treatment for cauliflower ear?

    The treatment for cauliflower ear is pretty simple. When you start to notice your ear getting sore or tender to touch you have a couple of options. The options are to relax on the amount of time you train, get protective headgear and wear it, or do nothing.

    If you do nothing your ear will eventually swell if it keeps getting hit (the likelihood of this happening is high).

     If cauliflower ear is left untreated or you decide to do nothing when the swelling starts to occur you risk having severe symptoms or severe amounts of deformity being caused to the ear. Over time your ear will start to resemble just a giant blob that will be very noticeable by people with its lumpy appearance. At this point your ear will have this permanent deformity and the only way you could fix it would be through corrective surgery.

    Who does cauliflower ear affect?

    Cauliflower ear can really happen to anyone who is doing any kind of contact sport but it is most commonly happening to those that go down the combat sports route. It is most common for those who box, wrestle, train BJJ, or other forms of grappling to develop cauliflower ear. Everyone’s ear is different and some may be more sensitive than others so some people while get it faster than others or may not even develop it.

    Symptoms of cauliflower ear are pretty noticeable and it is not a contagious thing. It takes blunt trauma to the ear cartilage to cause the cauliflower ear to start.

    What are the signs and symptoms of cauliflower ear?

    Some of the symptoms of cauliflower ear include:

    • Swelling of the ear

    • Blood accumulation on the ear cartlidge

    • Redness of the ear

    • Soreness and sensitivity of the ear

    Can I prevent cauliflower ear?

    Yes, cauliflower ear is preventable. It is easy to prevent cauliflower ear by wearing headgear as often as possible. If you do not want to wear protective headgear every time you train, just wear it when you start to experience some soreness or tenderness around the ears. It should be noted that if you wait to wear the headgear you may already have small amounts of cauliflower ear forming.

    Does cauliflower ear go away?

    The only way to get rid of cauliflower ear is by having corrective surgery. This typically costs thousands of dollars and is more of a cosmetic surgery. Cauliflower ear, in most cases, does not cause harm to the ability to hear. It is nothing that really needs to be corrected unless you just don’t like the appearance of your ear.

    Most people who end up having the ear deformity wear it as a badge of honor. You won’t find many fighters that have the desire to correct the way their ear looks after developing cauliflower ear.

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    Cold plunging is all the rave right now in the health and wellness space. I personally have been doing the practice for years now and love the added benefits I get from it. In this article, I break down a couple of ways on how to cold plunge at home on any budget!

    cold therapy and ice baths right at home

    How to Cold Plunge at Home

    Cold Plunge at Home Step-by-Step:

    1. Fill the Tub up with cold water. Fill the tub up with ice (should have enough ice to get the water temperature to around 50°F)

    2. Get Post plunge clothing ready

    3. Set an alarm

    4. Enter the ice bath

    5. Soak in the plunge for as long as you can

    6. Get out and warm up

    Cold Plunging at home can be done in a couple of ways. The first way you can cold plunge at home is in your own dedicated cold plunging device, doesn’t seem too much of a stretch of the imagination to find that one out. The other way you can cold plunge is by turning a regular bathtub into an ice bath and buying ice at your local gas station (or wherever you buy your ice).

    You can get the same results by going the make-shift cold plunge route but if you want to build a consistent habit with the practice it will be a huge waste to go back and forth buying ice all the time. Time is everything for me personally and I am not a fan of DIY devices, so going the route of having my own dedicated cold plunge device just makes the most sense.

    If push comes to shove, you can go to a local wellness center that has a cold plunge and start going there. You probably will end up saving money in the long run.

    Cold Plunge With a High-Quality Tub

    High-quality cold plunge tubs are worth the investment. If you are going to do something that is good for your health (like cold plunges) invest in to it, don’t sell yourself short. I really do think the budget cold plunge options are just a waste of money because most of them don’t have a chiller to keep the water cold or don’t have the jets to keep the flow rate of the water high.

    Seriously… whats the point of cold plunging if you don’t get what you are paying for!

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    How to Cold Plunge without Spending Thousands

    Again, we won’t stop you from going the DIY route, Shoot, I will even go as far as telling you how to do it, but I personally will not.

    You can cold plunge by buying a chest freezer, a separate chilling unit, and the necessary valves to make the whole system work, or even just buy a bunch of ice and turn your tub into an ice bath. At the end of the day, you’re going to end up spending around $1,200 on the makeshift system in most cases.

    Finally, you can also learn how to set up a cold plunge through step-by-step techniques. This option may require some technical skills and knowledge, but it can save you a significant amount of money compared to buying expensive equipment or hiring professionals.

    Top Cold Plunges on a Budget

    I believe the best budget cold plunge device is the one made over at Ice Barrel. While there are other options that are less than the Ice barrel, the Ice barrel is truly the first (and most affordable) option for a real cold plunge device. It is made with high-quality material and is a legitimate device.

    Again, the best cold plunge tubs on the market are priced the way they are for a reason, they get the job done, are made with high-quality material, and help you reap the full benefits of cold plunging. Now, if you read this and still say “Yeah but I don’t want to spend all the money”, fine, I get it, here are the budget options you are begging me for!

    The Cold Pod

    how to cold plunge at home, ice bath, cold water immersion and cold therapy

    Probably the most accessible cold plunge on the market is coming in from Nurecover. These cold plunge devices are extremely affordable sitting at just $100. No more having to drive to that wellness center or waiting to save up money to buy an expensive cold plunge, The Cold Pod got you covered.

    To make your life even easier, The Cold Pod even sells ice trays that can hold up to 96 ice cubes to you don’t have to always run out to buy bags of ice to keep the water temperature cold. The Cold Pod has two sizes for their portable cold plunge devices and have thousands of reviews on their products.

    Pros

     

      • Cheap and accessible to everyone

      • Easy to set up

      • Comes with a free thermostat

      • Easy to drain

      • 100% body coverage

    Cons

     

      • No chilling unit to keep water cold over time

      • No flowrate on the water

      • Not suitable for more than 1 person

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    Ice Bath Tub for Athletes

    Best budget-friendly cold plunge tub. *Does not come with ice or a chiller*

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    Ice Barrel

    how to cold plunge at home, ice bath, cold water immersion

    The ice barrel is the first step into the big leagues of cold plunging but is still on the list of being a budget cold plunge. The Barrel is probably one of the most recognizable cold plunge devices on the market because, well, it’s a giant barrel that you fill with ice and water.

    The Ice Barrel is an excellent option when compared to its super-affordable counterparts. Everything tells me to tell you to buy this one if you are looking for a budget option because at least you are getting something that feels like quality when you buy it versus what you may get with the cold plunges that are only $100.

    The ice barrel is durable and built to last. There are two versions to choose from (which is really a preference thing if you ask me) the Ice Barrel 300 or the Ice Barrel 400. The only difference in the two are the shapes/size and that the Ice Barrel 400 does not have quick connect port for a chiller. So if you end up deciding to buy a chiller in the future, the Ice Barrel 300 is probably the better option for you for now.

    Pros

    • Slender design and does not take up too much floor space

    • Durable

    • Comes with a lid, step stool, stand, and protective UV cover

    • Can go inside or outside

    • Does not require electricity

    • You plunge in the upright position which a bit more comfortable

    Cons

    • Still have to buy ice to use it

    • No electric cooling or heating mechanisms

    • Hrad to get into for shorter people

    • Heavy when filled

    Ice Barrel | Cold Therapy Devices

    Ready to experience the positive benefits from cold plunging? Take your health and wellness to the next level with Ice Barrel Cold Therapy Devices.

    Size: W 31” x H 42” (Fits most body types up to 6’6” and 300 pounds)
    Pros:
    • High Durability
    • Cheapest Cold Plunge Tub
    • Portable & Just Add Ice
    Cons:
    • Have to Add Ice
    • No Chilling Unit
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    Most Popular
    Best Bang For Buck
    Best Budget
    Primary Rating:
    4.7
    Primary Rating:
    4.6
    Primary Rating:
    4.2
    $173/mo
    $89/mo
    $75/mo
    Pros:
    • Multiple Sizing options for taller/shorter people
    • Indoor & Outdoor use
    • Great Customer support and video tutorials
    • Has an All-in-One OPtion
    Pros:
    • Not Breaking the Bank
    • 37ºF - 108ºF
    • Custom Design or Steel Design
    Pros:
    • Holds 105 Gallons
    • Easy Drainage & Usage
    • Save on Electricity bill since no chiller
    Cons:
    • Runs 24/7
    • Uncomfortable if you order the wrong size
    Cons:
    • Decent Flowrate
    Cons:
    • Little to no Flow to Water
    • Have to use ice to cool
    Most Popular
    Primary Rating:
    4.7
    $173/mo
    Pros:
    • Multiple Sizing options for taller/shorter people
    • Indoor & Outdoor use
    • Great Customer support and video tutorials
    • Has an All-in-One OPtion
    Cons:
    • Runs 24/7
    • Uncomfortable if you order the wrong size
    Best Bang For Buck
    Primary Rating:
    4.6
    $89/mo
    Pros:
    • Not Breaking the Bank
    • 37ºF - 108ºF
    • Custom Design or Steel Design
    Cons:
    • Decent Flowrate
    Best Budget
    Primary Rating:
    4.2
    $75/mo
    Pros:
    • Holds 105 Gallons
    • Easy Drainage & Usage
    • Save on Electricity bill since no chiller
    Cons:
    • Little to no Flow to Water
    • Have to use ice to cool

    Best Cold Plunge Tubs for Beginners

    Here is the complete article on some of the best cold plunges for beginners on the market today!

    how to cold plunge at home, ice bath, cold water immersion, cold plunge tub

    Best Inflatable Cold Plunges [With & Without Chillers]

    Here is the complete article on some of the best inflatable cold plunges on the market today!

    Our favorite Way to Get Cold Exposure

    If we have not made it clear at this point, we love cold plunge devices, specifically the devices that are crafted to last and give us the full experience of cold water immersion. The best overall cold plunge in my eyes is the device made by Plunge or the devices made by Bluecube. We have reviews for both products on our site that can be found here (Plunge) and here (Bluecube) and what we can take away from examining them closely is that they are both excellent options to choose from.

    My first cold plunging experience was in a plunge tub but the one we have had the most exposure to was the Bluecube tub at a local wellness center in my hometown.

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    FAQ

    What is the optimal temperature for an ice bath or cold plunge?

    The optimal temperature range for a cold plunge is between 45°F and 55°F. Now, some people can go much lower on the range but that comes with ample amounts of experience. If you are new to cold plunging work your way to colder temperatures and stay on the higher end of the range.

    Do you plunge earlier in the day or at night?

    Easy, cold plunge first thing in the morning, and do not do it at night. Cold water immersion shocks your systems and puts your body in fight-or-flight mode, meaning that if you do this at night you will be up all night

    How to cold plunge in the shower

    Cold showers are not exactly cold plunges but it definitely is a way to get your feet wet with getting your body used to cold water exposure. If you can get your shower to the right temperature you can see some common benefits from cold water therapy from a cold shower!

    Is there any risk associated with cold plunge tubs?

    Cold plunges are not as risky as they are made out to be but I would not say it is completely risk-free for a group of people. People who are pregnant, elderly, or have underlying health conditions should consult with medical professionals before diving into the cold water in a cold plunge.

    How long should you stay in a cold plunge tub?

    Cold plunges do not have to be long. You can stay in a cold plunge for as little as 30 seconds or as long as 5 minutes. The ideal thing you want ot accomplish in this exercise is to push your limits but be careful to not go overboard. Cold plunging is best when you are putting yourself out of your comfort zone.

    Are cold plunge tubs the same as ice bath tubs?

    Kinda of. The materials are different and the insulation is better in cold plunge tubs but other than those two things they are pretty much the same. Ice baths are typically steel tubs while cold plunges are either made of plastic or ceramic.

    The Cold Plunge Store

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    Cold plunging is all the craze right now. Are you on the fence? Or maybe you are just doing your research on the practice to see if it is right for you. Wherever you are, the optimal temperature for a cold plunge plays a huge role in your reaping the benefits of the practice but how cold is too cold for a cold plunge? Believe it or not, there is such a thing! Let’s examine further.

    how cold is too cold for cold plunge

    How Cold is Too Cold For A Cold Plunge?

    Believe it or not, there is a temperature that is too cold for cold plunging. First off, most cold plunges (that are worth the purchase in the first place) will come with a pretty high-grade chiller that has the capability of taking water temperatures as down as 33°F – 35°F. Just because the temperature range can go down to these close-to-freezing temperatures does not mean that you should be cold-plunging at these cold temperatures.

    The ideal range for the water of a cold plunge is between 45°F and 55°F, anything below this could be considered too cold. While some of you out there will be able to handle colder temperatures, most beginners will not be able to handle them.

    Cold exposure is best for your body when you right at the line of discomfort, you do not need to go into super cold water to reap the benefits, your body will be able to reap the benefits of cold plunging right between the optimal range.

    The Ideal Temperature Range for Cold Plunges

    The ideal temperature range for a cold plunge is between 45°F and 55°F for most people. Anything below 60°F is not going to get you the results you are looking for and anything below these temperature ranges might increase the risks associated with the practice.

    You can work your way to colder temperatures. You do not need to start at the coldest temperature. You need to find the right temperature for you so that you can build a consistent practice and ideally reap the long-term benefits of cold plunging.

    Start off at the ideal temperature range and work your way colder if you can!

    how cold is too cold for cold plunge

    Factors to Consider When Choosing a Temperature

    Here are some things to consider when trying to choose your cold plunge temperature:

    • Have you ever cold plunged before?

    • What can your body handle? (If you can’t even handle a 30-second cold shower start on the higher side of the range)

    Having your own dedicated cold plunge tub is such a blessing since you have the choice of the temperature of the water and can build up a tolerance to the cold over time. As you build a cold tolerance, adjust the water temperature to one that challenges your body without pushing way past your limits.

    Listen to your body at the end of the day. You started this practice to reap the benefits of cold water immersion in the first place, the last thing you want to do is jeopardize that.

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    Balancing Benefits and Risks

    It is on you to find the balance between the risks and benefits of cold plunging. We have had serious results from adding the practice to our everyday lives. Plunging in many ways has made us better athletes on the mats.

    Cold plunging is a mental and physical way to push yourself in the recovery process from intense workouts. Whether you are a runner, biker, boxer, football player, or basketball player, a simple ice bath routine can drastically impact you in a positive way.

    inergize cold plunge

    Cold Plunge For Beginners

    If you are new to the practice of cold plunging we have you entirely covered. Grapplers Graveyard is the #1 source for all things related to cold plunging, cold therapy, and athletic recovery. Find all the information we have on cold plunge here.

    How to Prepare for Your First Ice Bath

    The best way to prepare for your first plunge is by understanding that you will be pushed both mentally and physically by the practice. Do not think that this will be easy, if it is, you are not doing it right.

    First things first, you need an ice bath or cold plunge that has a high flow rate so you can maximize the outcome of the submersion. If you plunge in a tub with little to no flow rate, you will build up a thermal layer that keeps your body warm which in turn nullifies the practice.

    Here is how you can prepare:

    1. Prepare mentally

    2. Set a timer and put on some soothing music

    3. When you get into the water, submerge your body as fast as you can all the way up to your neck

    4. Step two will cause you to be shocked and put your body into fight or flight mode, at this stage you may start breathing very fast. Slow your breath down and focus on getting that controlled

    5. Wait for the timer to go off and allow your body to slowly warm-up

    6. *Bonus* When you submerge your body, dunk your head to get used to the water faster this is a pro-tip

    Build Your Cold Tolerance

    Nothing works if you do not stick with it over a period of time and cold plunges are no different. You need to build up the consistency that is needed to get the most out of the practice, The best way to do this is to have your own dedicated tub right at home.

    Over time, you may start to build a tolerance to the cold water temperatures that you find yourself submerged in, this is normal and should be expected, it means you grew from your original starting point. Remember, the cold plunge is an exercise that is meant to push you mentally just as much as it does physically. Without pushing way past your limits, you should find the area of discomfort and start there.

    Balancing Comfort and Challenge

    There is a beautiful balance that can be found with the cold water immersion from a cold plunge. This range is going to be different for everyone and it is on you to figure this part out for yourself. Start with the ideal temperature range that has been spoken about in this blog post.

    Explore the Unrivaled Cold Plunge Tubs at BlueCube

    Bluecube cold plunge devices are by far the high-quality cold plunge on the market, there is a reason why their starting price is over $10,000. The high-grade chiller mixed with the exceptional flow rate of the water make this a no-brainer purchase for those who enjoy luxury, want the most out of the practice of cold plunging, or plan on starting a business.

    Now just because the device is more expensive does not mean it is not directly accessible for people since you do have the option to finance the device. Lucky for our readers, when they use the code ‘GrapplersGraveyard’ they get $250 off their next purchase! Check out our review (Bluecube Review) on all the cold plunges that Bluecube has to offer to find out which one it right for you!

    bluecube ice bath logo

    MYTH: Ice Bathing Gives You a Cold or Hypothermia

    No, it does not give you a cold or hypothermia but you can get both of these if you do not understand the risks associated with cold plunging. Now let me back this up and say that cold plunging is completely safe for most people. Anyone who is pregnant, really old, or has underlying health conditions should probably steer clear of cold plunging till you fix what you got going on, unless you’re old, cause you can’t fix that.

    Want to know how to stay safe while cold plunging? Don’t stay in a cold plunge till the point that you are shivering cold (aka don’t be in there for 30 minutes) and starting to black out. Not worth it, you’re just hurting yourself at that point.

    MYTH: Only Athletes Should Do Ice Baths

    Now, about a decade ago this may have been true but ice baths and cold plunges are now becoming more widely available to everyday people. While buying a cold plunge may be out of most people’s budgets there are local businesses that offer cold plunging, ice baths, or cold therapy practices like cryotherapy as a service.

    Cold plunging is something that can be picked up by everyone in today’s world. As we look around, more and more people are doing all they can to live a healthy lifestyle, and recovery is a huge part of that. Find the best cold plunges that can suit you from the comfort of your home or help you start that business that you always wanted!

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    people also asked

    People Also Asked

    How cold is too cold for cold plunging?

    Going to the lowest temperature that your cold plunge device can go to is too cold of a temperature. Be cautious before doing that and know your body.

    Is 32 degree water too cold for a cold plunge?

    Considering water freezes at this temperature, yes, 32°F is way too cold to plunge in. All the cold plunge devices on the market do not go to this temperature for a reason with most only being able to really reach as low as 35°F.

    Is 70 degrees cold enough for a cold plunge?

    No, 70 °F is not cold enough for a cold plunge. The water temperature of your cold plunge needs to be at a range that is going to challenge you without pushing way past your limits. This ideal temperature range is between 45°F and 55°F.

    Is 65 degrees cold enough for a cold plunge?

    No, 65 °F is not cold enough for a cold plunge. The water temperature of your cold plunge needs to be at a range that is going to challenge you without pushing way past your limits. This ideal temperature range is between 45°F and 55°F.

    How Often Can I cold plunge?

    Truthfully, you can cold plunge daily if you want to or even twice a day depending on how much you exercise. There is really no limit to how many times you cold plunge during the day just try to not stay in them for too long. The ideal amount of time you want to stay in a cold plunge is between 1 and 5 minutes.

    Should I wear clothes in a cold plunge?

    Yes, please wear clothes when you cold plunge. Don’t skinny dip in your cold plunge you nasty.

    Men Wear This:

    • Shorts

    • Underwear

    • T-shirt (optional)

    Women Wear This:

    • Bathsuit top and bottom

    • Athletic Shorts (an option)

    • Athletic shirt (and option)

    In This Article

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    As cold exposure gets more popular, the notion of brown fat activation gets more traction by the minute. Many people regard brown adipose tissue as a mysterious trait that cannot be possessed by everyone. However, once the concept of cold plunge became popular, it opened new opportunities for people who strive for holistic healing approaches. 

    Brown fat is known to come with a lot of benefits, hence its popularity. Many people, especially beginners in cold plunging, do not understand how brown adipose tissue affects our health. That is why I have created this guide to cover everything about brown fat activation and the advantages that come along with it.

    Cold exposure has been shown to activate brown fat cells in the body and increase thermogenesis (heat generation). This heat generated from the brown fat in your body helps raise the body’s metabolic rate which has the potential to help you lose weight and burn calories.

    brown fat cell diagram

    What is Brown Fat?

    Brown fat, officially known as brown adipose tissue, is a type of fat that produces heat when your body is cold. Moreover, brown fat burns calories and stores energy, making your body more active. In other words, brown fat activation is related to increased metabolism and faster calorie burn

    Nonetheless, brown fat cells are also believed to be beneficial in fighting type 2 diabetes and obesity. Therefore, they are not only helpful in losing weight but also for fighting chronic diseases that can put lives at risk.

    Babies are known to have significant levels of brown fat when they are born. Since they are unable to shiver, brown adipose tissue is what keeps them warm. As we grow older, this kind of fat is replaced by white fat, which makes us gain body weight and become fat. 

    This is where brown fat activation can help and provide excellent health benefits for both our physical and mental health. Activating the adipose tissue can happen through exposure to cold temperatures, which is one of the pillars of the Wim Hof Method.

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    brown fat activation with cold plunging

    How Does Cold Plunging Affect Brown Fat Activation?

    The Wim Hof concept is based on breathing, cold exposure, and dedication. Cold plunging is actually the central part in which an individual gets the ultimate health benefits. These benefits do not only include physical aspects but also mental ones. Moreover, it is essential to note that although this method has become popular primarily among athletes for good shape and muscle recovery, nowadays, it is tried by individuals who are not athletic at all. That is, cold plunging is not only beneficial for losing body weight and keeping your muscles intact but also for keeping your overall body healthy.

    When it comes to brown fat and cold exposure, scientists have discovered a strong connection between the two notions. Namely, they have found that low body temperature activates brown fat and unlocks benefits for your body. When it’s activated, your body burns calories and helps you lose weight. 

    However, the activation of brown adipose tissue does not happen immediately. There needs to be at least 10 days of cold exposure before your body starts getting the advantages of this method. This is due to the fact that the body of an adult starts losing brown fat as it grows older. Instead, the body replaces it with white fat that causes weight gain, which, if improved, can lead to obesity and other diseases. 

    What Is the Purpose of Brown Fat?

    The primary purpose of brown fat is to keep the body warm when exposed to cold conditions. This process is also known as brown fat thermogenesis, and it does not only happen during cold plunging and ice baths. On the contrary, brown adipose tissue reacts whenever you are exposed to low temperatures. Therefore, its main role is to generate heat by burning fat that is stored in your body. Thermoregulation is especially important for babies and young mammals whose bodies are still not able to respond to cold conditions. 

    Besides thermoregulation, brown adipose tissue has other functions. It also affects metabolic health since it burns calories and helps your body lose weight. In fact, when brown fat is activated, it absorbs fatty acids and glucose to produce heat. That said, the activation of brown fat is often referred to as a method for weight loss and the ability to control body weight.

    In addition, brown fat is proven to be helpful with insulin regulation. That is why it is said that brown adipose tissue (BAT) can work against diseases like diabetes and obesity. Plus, it is quite beneficial for metabolism and cholesterol levels. 

    Lastly, brown fat has shown results in regulating fatty acids in the body. By absorbing them to produce heat, brown adipose tissue can bring cardiovascular benefits. So, when brown fat activates, it not only starts to burn calories but also impacts the overall health of your body. In other words, besides replacing white fat, it also regulates your bodily functions.    

     types of body fat

    What are the types of fat in my body?

    Many people believe that there is only one type of fat in our body – the one that makes us fat and overweight. Generally, the term fat most often carries a negative connotation. Nonetheless, our bodies consist of different types of fat, and each of them comes with different functions and colors.

    • White fat 

    The most prominent fat in our bodies is white fat. This kind serves to store energy and to insulate the organs in the body. White fat stores energy in different parts of the human body, but too much of it can lead to obesity and overweight. 

    • Brown fat 

    Brown fat is smaller than white fat, and it is found in the body at lower levels. Brown adipose tissue stores energy but burns it to regulate body temperature. In addition, it burns calories to produce heat before your body starts shivering. What is more, brown fat helps regulate fat metabolism and sugar. 

    • Beige fat 

    The third type of fat in our bodies is beige fat, which is a combination of brown and white fat. This type is able to regulate body temperature by its property to convert white fat into brown. 

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    Brown Fat Vs. White Fat

    Even though brown fat and white fat might seem to have similar properties, their bodily functions are completely different. Namely, both of them store energy, but their roles and places in the body are quite distinguishable. They are basically two opposites that perform unique functions – while brown fat’s role is to burn calories from the stored energy, white adipose tissue stores the excess energy. 

    On the other hand, white fat cells can also harm the body and lead to diseases such as obesity. While the impact of brown fat cells is positive, the effect is the opposite when it comes to white adipose tissue. 

    In addition, brown fat is smaller than white fat and also darker in color. This is due to the fact that brown adipose tissue contains mitochondria, which are rich in iron and produce heat. 

    In short, brown fat is characterized by positive traits, and they do not include only protection of the body from cold temperatures. Brown fat cells also come with other benefits which refer to the overall health of an individual.

    What is the purpose of your different types of body fat?

    Our bodies contain different types of body fat because each of them has a different role that is necessary for our health. That is, some contribute to healthy hormone levels and metabolism, while others help in the fight against certain diseases, such as cancer, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. 

    • Role of white fat 

    White adipose tissue is large, and it stores energy that the body uses later. Additionally, this type of fat isolates the organs and plays a crucial role in the function of some hormones, like estrogen, insulin, cortisol, leptin, and growth hormone. 

    Nonetheless, too much white fat can put your health at risk and cause diseases, such as hormone imbalances, stroke, type 2 diabetes, liver disease, and kidney disease. That is why it is important to keep a balanced level of white fat cells in order to keep your body healthy and functional. 

    • Role of brown fat

    As previously mentioned, the primary role of brown fat is to produce heat and keep our body warm when exposed to low temperatures. Brown fat burns calories as well if it is activated. Since this type of fat is most commonly found in babies, adults do not have high levels of it in the body. To unlock the benefits, you need to increase brown fat, i.e. activate the tissue that contributes to calorie burning. 

    • Role of beige fat 

    The notion of beige fat is still new in the field of research. It is a combination of brown and white fat, and it has similar functions to brown fat cells. According to some studies, when you work out, you are stressed or cold, and your body converts white fat into beige fat cells. Furthermore, it is believed that beige fat can prevent obesity and promote a healthy lifestyle.   

    Does Brown Fat Have Any Health Benefits?

    Many people try to figure out how brown fat works and unlocks many advantages for our bodies. Even though the primary role of brown fat is to keep the body warm and regulate body temperatures, it also offers numerous benefits that can contribute to health. Brown fat has several functions that can keep a perfect healthy balance and promote physical well-being.

    What does brown fat do?

    Besides regulating body temperature, brown fat can burn calories and help us lose weight when that is our priority. It has the power to convert white fat cells into brown or beige and relieve your body from excess energy. Plus, brown fat can help with metabolic disorders and chronic diseases that happen due to obesity or overweight.   

    How does brown fat help my body?

    The biggest role of brown fat is to regulate body temperature, which is necessary for a well-functioning body. If there is no brown fat, your body will not be able to function properly. But it also serves to protect you from diseases that can happen when there is an increase in white fat.

    When it comes to weight loss, brown fat can be of significant help because it successfully burns excess energy. Also, it can improve insulin sensitivity, which is helpful for regulating blood sugar. This way, it also protects your body from diseases like type 2 diabetes. 

    Furthermore, when you increase brown fat in your body, you lower the risk of getting obesity-related diseases, such as stroke and heart disease. According to research, people who are overweight or obese experience greater benefits from brown fat since it helps reduce the harmful effects of obesity. In addition, people with increased brown fat experience lower rates of high blood pressure.

    Other Ways To Activate Brown Fat

    The most efficient way to activate brown fat is through exposure to low temperatures. The Wim Hof Method has proven to be successful for people who want to increase brown fat. Exposure to cold conditions can help raise the chances of activating brown fat more efficiently. 

    Exposing your body to low temperatures and cold conditions can be achieved through: 

    • Ice baths

    • Cold showers 

    • Activities done in low temperatures and extreme weather conditions

    How to Turn White Fat Into Brown Fat Naturally

    When you want to replace white fat and increase brown fat naturally, there are a few ways that can give you the desired results: 

    • Exercising: Working out on a regular basis can help you increase brown fat, especially if you do intense exercises. 

    • Healthy diet: Incorporating a healthy diet is a must when it comes to turning white fat into brown. Still, some components might add extra effects, such as chili peppers and green tea extract. But, the way they impact the activation of brown fat can vary from person to person. 

    • Getting enough sleep: When you want to increase brown fat, an adequate sleeping schedule is a must. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day is of essential importance.

    brown fat activation

    Cold Exposure and Brown Fat Activation

    When you want to activate brown fat and unlock the health benefits it offers, cold plunging might be a good and efficient solution. Whether you want to burn calories, establish a good body temperature, or lose body fat, exposing your body to cold can be extremely beneficial. Nonetheless, following specific guidelines is mandatory when it comes to cold plunging and brown fat activity.   

    If you are interested in more information about cold plunging, please check out my other blogs. Grapplers Graveyard is the #1 resource for the topic on the internet.

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    We will flat out say it now, we believe that Brazilian jiu-jitsu will be the biggest martial art in the world and will have 10s of million sof people training by the end of the decade. Not only is the martial art growing extremely fast in the United States but it truly has a world wide presence. With the rise of UFC and One Fight Championship, more and more people are getting enthralled with the idea of being a warrior. In this article, we take a look at why BJJ will become the biggest martial art in the world.

    Why BJJ May Become the Biggest Martial Art

    Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is the fastest growing martial art in the world right now. It has the recipe to be something very big at the rate it is going. Sure, we may be a little bias about that prediction since we are building a business in the space but we like to think we are objective thinkers when it comes to spotting rising trends.

    All of this stems off the rising popularity of MMA and the UFC. None of this happens without it in our opinion. MMA is on its way to being the biggest sport in the world but it has one big issue, not many people like to get hit in the face.

    So what is the alternative option for people to scratch the itch to learn how to fight without getting punched, Brazilian jiu-jitsu. With the access to BJJ gyms growing as more people get promoted to black belt, it leaves more room for new incumbents to enter the market. 

    Lets examine whats happening on the ground a little bit more in detail.

    Boots on the Ground: What is Happening?

    SO, if you havent already picked this up yet, we train Brazilian Jiu-jitsu and compete regularly. When we first started out on our journey, we started to notice all the people giving the martial art a go and started to ask why they started in the first place. The answers all followed a similar tone.

    People train Brazilian jiu jitsu for the following reasons:

    • They want to find a new and fun way to workout
    • They want to lose weight and get cut
    • They want to feel like they can protect themselves if they needed to fight

    Many people get hooked to Brazilain jiu-jitsu. It has the tendencies of a cult, people sear up and down that this martial art “saved their life”. In some cases, that is definitely true, but in others it just got people more fit, more disciplined, and taught them how to fight and protect themselves if a situation were to arise. All wonderful things.

    People who love to train brazilian jiu-jitsu also fall in love with all the learning that comes along with becoming a practitioner. The intelligence of the community about grappling blows our mind and only makes the experience of watching UFC fights more exciting! 

    We used to work for an investment firm so we started to pick up on the signs written on the wall, Brazilian jiu jitsu is bound to have a massive decade full of growth. We are excited to be right on the ground floor of this trend and outside influences only support what we think is in store for the coming decade.

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    Gracie Influence

    This last week, Rener Gracie came out with a new book called ‘The 32 Principles: Harnessing the Power of jiu-Jitsu to Succeed in Business, Relationship, and Life‘, so far the read has been awesome but what is more important is the book tour he is going on.

    Rener has been all over my social media feed talking about the power that BJJ has in changing our lives for the better. He he gives a very convincing argument on these short clips but really outlines the details in the book. Rener is the brains behind Gracie University and in his own right has been massively success in life and business. Right now he has 408,000 followers on Instagram and is one of the biggest influences for the martial art to reach its fullest potential.

    We firmly believe that jiu-jitsu is a martial art that anyone can do. It is an art made for a smaller person to have control over a larger untrained person. Each day we are seeing new things in the industry and love seeing the art touch more peoples lives.

    ADCC

    ADCC, or Abu Dhabi Combat Club, is the largest no-gi grappling organization in the world and has been taking majority of the share for the competition scene over the past couple of years. While there will still be room for the GI competitions to be massive, ADCC has morphed into the “Superbowl” in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

    Open tournaments are popping up left and right and with the World Championships coming in the Fall of 2024, everyone is starting to get very excited. No-gi grappling has gained a lot of traction probably due to the rise of the UFC and the argument that states that is “more realistic”.

    Elon Musk vs Mark Zuckerburg? 

    Unless you have been living under a rock, Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerburg that thinking about fighting. This is huge for BJJ and grappling martial arts.

    The reach that these two have combined with the type of people that religiously follow their every move should not be underestimate. People that train Brazilian jiu-jitsu already get enthralled by the immense learning that takes place on the mats, mix that with intelligence in the audience that typically follows these tow and you are bound to strac the curiosity of some interesting people.

    What we have noticed is that many people that train brazilian jiu-jitsu are in the following fields of work: Sales, finance, construction, tech, fitness, or law. 

    Almost without question, these are the types of people that follow these two mega figure heads. If this actually goes down brazilian jiu-jitsu and MMA gyms around the country are going ot be flooded with a bunch of smart, curious people that wnt to get fit just like Zuck and Musk.

    Celebrity Hype

    Even celebrities are encouraging the people to start training Brazilain jiu-jitsu. Figures like Asthon Kutcher, Demi Levot, and Tom Hardy all are high lievel Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioners at this point. Not to mention, figureheads like Joe Rogan, Jocko, and Lex Fridman are all black belts and have dedicated a large part of their life to the martial art.

    Our prediction is that more and more people will be intrigued to at least try out a class or two. 

    Competition Scene EXPLODES

    This is probably the craziest thing that we have been noticing about the BJJ scene.

    Competitions are exploding in popularity! If you know anything about human nature, humans actions can be boiled down to one thing, incentives. With the rise of the competition scene in BJJ comes more prize money for those that start to train and want to make it ot te top. 

    Even local tournaments are starting to offer up $6,000 cash prizes for the winner of their black belt open championships. 

    This year, we have seen 10,000 competitors sign up for a weekend of fighting. IBJJF Worlds (August 2023) had 10,000 sign up to compete in their tournament. This is the single largest jiu-jitsu event in history. Jiu JItsu World League, another very large tournament host, continues to see a lot of traction as well with many of their tournaments (even on major holidays like mothers day) getting over 1,000 people to sig up! These are some of the largest BJJ tournaments recorded in history and we believe that growth only continues as more people decide to give martial arts a try in the coming decade.

    Conclusion

    Let’s see how this blog post ages. It will be a fun thing to look back upon 10 years form now and see if our intuition was right. We are not sure how big BJJ gets over the next 10 years but there is no doubt in our mind that it will not stay stagnant.

    What do you think happens for the martial art? In our opinion, there is no way we do not see growth over the next decade. With the sport already being male-dominated, there is so much room for the female demographic to grow. As more women become black belts/gym owners/coaches or hit the highest stage of competition, it will only inspire a younger crowd to get involved creating an amazing cycle. 

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    How much is a cold plunge tub? Kind of a lot of money, not going to lie. We personally do not think the “affordable options” are even worth the $100 price point that most of them sit at so not including those, cold plunges will range from $1,200 – $15,000. Almost all the tubs on the market can be financed so you can break down those payments over time if you are wanting to do so. Let’s look a little deeper at the art of cold plunging.

    how much is a cold plunge tub

    How Much is a Cold Plunge Tub

    Cold plunge tubs are an investment. Most cold plunges can be financed so the price tag can be broken down to monthly payments as low as $100/month depending on which device you end up going with. The price of a cold plunge tub ranges from as low as \$100 to \$15,000.

    This is a massive range and we would generally not recommend any cold plunge device under the $500 price range because you are not really getting the full effects of cold plunging with a device like that. In experience, real cold plunge devices (ones that actually get you the intended benefits of cold therapy) start at $1,200 (Ice Barrel).

    Budget Friendly
    Best Overall
    Primary Rating:
    4.1
    Primary Rating:
    4.6
    Pros:
    • Better on Price versus the cold plunge
    • Dunk and plunge is cool
    • Easy to move around and store
    Pros:
    • Best Overall Cold plunge and most recognized Brand
    • Video tutorials and great customer support
    • Sleek design with indoor and outdoor capabilities
    • Has and All-in-One Design
    Cons:
    • No chiller
    • Have to use ice to cool
    • No Flowrate
    Cons:
    • Pricey compared to Ice Barrel
    • If you get the wrong size it will be uncomfortable
    • Runs 24/7
    Budget Friendly
    Primary Rating:
    4.1
    Pros:
    • Better on Price versus the cold plunge
    • Dunk and plunge is cool
    • Easy to move around and store
    Cons:
    • No chiller
    • Have to use ice to cool
    • No Flowrate
    Best Overall
    Primary Rating:
    4.6
    Pros:
    • Best Overall Cold plunge and most recognized Brand
    • Video tutorials and great customer support
    • Sleek design with indoor and outdoor capabilities
    • Has and All-in-One Design
    Cons:
    • Pricey compared to Ice Barrel
    • If you get the wrong size it will be uncomfortable
    • Runs 24/7

    At this point, we have reviewed every major cold plunge device on the market. The best cold plunges are ones that are a bit more on the pricey side. The best overall cold plunge device based on price and specs would be the device from Plunge but if you are looking for top-tier specs and the most luxurious device on the market, there is no question that Blue Cube (review) takes the crown there.

    If you are going to buy a cold plunge device for commercial purposes, you really should only be considering the cold plunges with high flow rates and higher horsepower chillers. These two items are going to separate the good from the best.

    What Am I Paying For?

    The more expensive the cold plunge the better the specs are on the device. What you are paying for in higher-priced cold plunges is going to most likely be the design, chiller power, and flow rate of the water system. Most of the top-tier cold plunges on the market only have differences based on these things.

    They will keep the water cooler as more people come in and out of the water, they will chill the water faster, and they will make the water move much like a natural stream would. We have a best-of list on the best cold plunge tub in 2023, there you can find our analysis for finding the best recovery tool for health enthusiasts or potential business owners.

    Most Affordable Cold Plunges

    We do not like writing about the affordable options on the market because after analyzing and reviewing what makes the top-tier devices what they are, we realized that those affordable options are just a waste of money. Seriously, if you want to cold plunge and want the practice to be more affordable just go find a local business that has a cold plunge device and sign up with them. You are both helping a local business and saving yourself a trip to go get ice.

    Now, let’s say you are in a situation where there really is no local wellness center, and REALLY wanted to cold plunge, we would recommend going with Nurecover. Again, there is really nothing that operates the cheap cold plunges from one another, you will have to go buy ice every time you do the practice and it most definitely will not be breaking the thermal layer build up but if you forced us to name one, that would be the one.

    Things to Be Aware Of

    We laid it out above. The affordable options for cold plunge devices are not our favorite because you have to continuously make trips to buy ice, there is no flow to the water so you will not break the thermal layer (why this matters) and if multiple people are cold plunging you will have to throw more ice into the tub since there is no chiller working to keep the water cold.

    Not to mention that there is no filtration system on these affordable options so you may be plunging in dirty water.

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    Best Bargain Cold Plunges

    There are some cold plunge devices that hit the sweet spot in our opinion. If you are someone with a little bit more to spend and are serious about adding the practice to your routine but don’t want to spend a fortune the best bargain cold plunge on the market is by far the ones offered by Polar Monkeys (review).

    Polar Monkey cold plunges are perfect for those consumers that fit the category above, seriously. They have a good enough horsepower that keeps the water cool for 2 – 3 people to plunge within an hour time frame and have a good filtration system in place to both keep the water clean and somewhat flowing.

    ice baths, polar plunge by polar monkeys

    Polar Monkeys | Powerful Cold Plunge

    Experience the future of cold plunging with the Brainpod 2.0. This state-of-the-art fully insulated plunge tub redefines your chilling experience, harnessing robust cooling, filtration, and sanitation mechanisms to provide crystal-clear, ice-free, and perfectly chilled water at your convenience. Versatile for indoor and outdoor settings and embark on a life-transforming journey. 

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    Best Luxury Cold Plunges

    If you want the “Ritz Carlton” or “Rolex” of cold plunge tubs look no further than BlueCube (review) or Odin Ice Baths (review).

    There is no doubt in our mind that these two sit at the top for the best cold plunge tubs. When it comes to design, power, and flow rates they are leaps and bounds ahead of the other options out there.

    Odin cold plune, cold plunge tub features, cold water exposure

     

    If you are going down the route of buying your own cold plunge device you need to know what to look for before you go off and make the purchase. Now, if you are in the small group that wants to do your own research when it comes to buying the right device for you, we have a list of 7 things you should look for.

    best cold water tub, how much is a cold plunge tub
    Highest Quality Cold Plunge Device
    Bluecube Cold Plunge

    Looking for a premier cold plunging experience? Look no further than Bluecube! With the highest flowrate and most powerful chiller on the market, Bluecube completely separates itself from every cold plunge out. Use code 'GrapplersGraveyard' for a $250 discount on your purchase.

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    For those that trust the research that we have down here is a list in order of what we think the best cold plunge devices on the market are:

    List of Top Cold Plunges (In Order):

    1. BlueCube (Review)

    2. Odin Ice Baths (Review)

    3. Plunge (Review)

    4. Morozko

    5. Inergize Health (Review)

    6. Polar Monkeys (Review)

    7. The Ice Barrel (Review)

    8. Redwood Outdoors

    9. All “Affordable Options”

    Is a Cold Plunge Worth the Money?

    In our opinion, yes, cold plunge devices are absolutely worth the cost. We love the mental aspect of cold plunging, it is something that is not an easy practice and we love to challenge ourselves to see how much our bodies can handle. being that this is a website mainly about Brazilian jiu-jitsu and bettering our lives through the martial art, we actually gravitate towards pushing our bodies limits and seeing what we are capable of.

    The other day we went for a walk with a friend and the topic of cold plunging got brought up and you know what she said? She loved it for the same reasons too! If you are someone who runs away from discomfort and is not wanting to push yourself mentally and physically, cold plunges are probably not worth it but so will a lot of health-related things if you fit this camp!

    The Bottom Line

    The bottom line is this, cold plunges are a bit more expensive but they are worth it. if you want to build your own cold plunge device there is nothing stopping you there but you will end up paying the same price along the way. Most freezers are about $800 – $1,000 and then the chillers are about the same price, just those two things alone equate to more than what it would cost you to get the Ice barrel.

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    So you’re interested in cold plunging as a potential tool to help you recover for exercise? Or maybe you have been seeing a bunch of videos online about why you should do a cold plunge. Well, in this article, we tell you why to do a cold plunge and the benefits that it has on athletes and health enthusiasts around the world.

    Let’s dive in!

    why do a cold plunge

    Why Do A Cold Plunge?

    Cold plunges are all the hype in a health and wellness space right now. We are constantly seeing more wellness centers pop up as well as many health enthusiasts promoting the benefits of cold plunging to people on apps like Tik Tok or Instagram. Unless you have been living under a rock, it’s hard to not even know what it is!

    At the Grapplers Graveyard, we have become experts on the topic through first-hand experience and intense amounts of research. We have gone and done the work for you so you can find all the best information on cold plunging in one spot.

    Yes, we are a site mainly about BJJ, MMA, and other grappling-related sports like wrestling but we will also become the world’s leaders for recovery items so athletes and health enthusiasts can feel comfort in knowing that they can participate in whatever sport they want and have the knowledge to give their bodies what it needs!

    Here is why you should do a cold plunge in the first place:

    New Way to Recover

    New things are good to try out! While the term ‘ cold plunging‘ is still pretty new the real practice of cold water therapy (most known in athletics for ice baths) is something that has been around for decades. The practice has been around sports related spaces for so long but it’s just now hitting the masses.

    There are a million ways to recover from workouts today. CBD, massage guns, foam rollers, and saunas are all great ways to speed up the recovery process after intense levels of exercise. Cold water immersion is just another piece to that puzzle. There are plenty of studies backing up the benefits that can be found from as little as 60 seconds of being submerged in cold water.

    Here is one (source) and here is another (source)

    why do a cold plunge with the plunge tub

    Accessibility

    Cold plunging makes recovery easy. Actually owning a cold plunge device makes the practice very accessible. While the cold plunge devices themselves may be on the more expensive side, once you get over that initial investment the maintenance of the tub you end up going with is very minimal.

    Cold exposure has seriously never been easier to get access to with the commercialization of cold plunge devices. Most of the items on the market range in price but you can see a huge gap in quality when you look at the most affordable cold plunges versus some of the best cold plunges on the market.

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    Increase Energy & Increase Mood

    Cold plunging has a number of health benefits that make the practice exciting for people. The first thing you will notice when you start your cold plunging journey is how shockingly cold the water temperature is. Even if you do not go down to the coldest temperatures, chances are your body is not used to water being anywhere between 45°F – 55°F.

    After getting out of the cold plunge tub you will notice that throughout your day your energy levels will be high and this is for a reason. Czech researchers found that our dopamine levels (the happy chemical in our bodies naturally produce) can rise as high as 250% over a 6-hour time period.

    Not only are you getting a great mental challenge while cold plunging but you are also naturally increasing a chemical in your brain!

    Cold Plunges Speed up Exercise Recovery

    Ice baths have to been used by athletes for decades now to help speed up the recovery process after exercise. We are seeing the world become more health conscious as we speak, as more people begin to train more like athletes the importance of recovery will only increase.

    We are under the belief that MMA and jiu-jitsu have what it takes to be two of the largest sports in the world over the coming decade. Muscle soreness and muscle recovery for athletes that train in these sports is very important since the risk of injury is still relatively high.

    Even if you are not a grappling athlete, cold plunges still serve a great purpose in your overall health journey and should be added to your routine so you can stay at your peak!

    why do a cold plunge with a cold plunge tub

    Improves Blood Circulation & Reduces Inflammation

    There is evidence that shows that cold plunges also help with blood circulation but the complete understanding of it is still evolving and not fully conclusive, this is what we know now.

    Vasoconstriction and Vasodilation

    When your body is exposed to cold water, your blood vessels constrict (vasoconstriction) in response to the cold (source). This is a natural reaction our bodies have when trying to preserve body heat. Once you exit the cold water, your blood vessels dilate (vasodilation) as your body attempts to return to normal temperature.

    Andrew Huberman, a Stanford Neuroscientist who has studied the effects of cold water immersion, says the best way to cold plunge is by staying in until you are about to shiver, get out of the cold plunge to war back up, then get right back in. This helps maximize the benefits that cold water immersion can have on both your body and mind.

    Inflammation

    Cold exposure has been associated with a reduction in inflammation. Chronic inflammation can contribute to various cardiovascular and circulatory issues. By reducing inflammation, cold therapy might indirectly improve blood circulation.

    It is still important to note that the evidence supporting the benefits cold plunging has on blood circulation is still limited and more research is needed. Cold water immersion may not be suitable for everyone and you should carefully weigh the risks if you have an underlying health condition or are pregnant.

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    Most Popular
    Primary Rating:
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    $173/mo
    Pros:
    • Multiple Sizing options for taller/shorter people
    • Indoor & Outdoor use
    • Great Customer support and video tutorials
    • Has an All-in-One OPtion
    Cons:
    • Runs 24/7
    • Uncomfortable if you order the wrong size
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    Pros:
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    Best Budget
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    $75/mo
    Pros:
    • Holds 105 Gallons
    • Easy Drainage & Usage
    • Save on Electricity bill since no chiller
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    • Have to use ice to cool

    Build Resilience & Improves Your Discipline

    Building resilience and improving your discipline is something we always try to run towards. As a martial artist, this is something that is extremely important to us. Any athlete that is looking to take their craft seriously should be taking active steps to improve this part of their life.

    Building up resilience or improving discipline is such an important thing to do. Cold plunging is not something that is easy, in most cases it is something that we personally don’t want to do in the moment but we end up doing it because we know what lies on the other side.

    On the other side of discomfort is growth and cold plunging can be a great way for each one of us to get that exposure to challenges in our daily life. Even if you cannot afford a tub right now, cold showers are still a great way to get your toes wet with the practice.

    why do a cold plunge

    Improves Your Sleep & Decreases Stress Levels

    Cold plunging may have an indirect impact on our sleep quality. Since cold water immersion decreases stress levels, it can contribute to an improved quality of sleep. Lower amounts of stress make it easier for you to relax at night and help reduce anxiety levels that might interfere with your sleep.

    Potential Risks of Cold Plunging

    The risks of cold plunges have been outlined in a separate article we have written that can be found here.

    You should consult with a medical professional if you have underlying heart problems, are susceptible to getting hypothermia easier than other people, are elderly, or are pregnant. The practice itself is not dangerous for most people.

    If you are training regularly, are active, and have no health issues cold plunging is safe. You will benefit most from getting a couple of minutes of cold water exposure daily or at least 5 times a week! if you end up adopting the practice into your routine it is important to build a consistent habit with it.

    Tips to Make Your First Cold Plunge or Ice Bath a Success

    • Go into the practice knowing you will be pushed mentally and physically

    • A complete beginner should shoot for 1 minute (if you can’t get there work your way up)

    • Don’t start out with the coldest water temperature (45°F – 55°F is ideal)

    • Use music and timers

    • Focus on getting your breath under control after the initial shock you may experience

    Conclusion

    All in all, you should try out cold plunging for yourself. As we stated earlier the practice is growing in popularity and has been proven to help with a number of body functions. For those that want to take their health to the next level, cold water immersion is a must-add to your routine. We have been submerging in cold water for years now and even have people on our team that do the practice regularly, it has been extremely beneficial to our recovery process and keeps us from taking time off the mats.

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    In This Article:

    Are cold plunges dangerous? The simple answer to this question is no. There is very minimal risk associated with the practice of cold plunging if you follow guides on how to do them properly and avoid getting in water that is just too cold. In this article, we expand on this topic and more.

    Are Cold Plunges Dangerous?

    Cold plunges, also known as cold water immersion or ice baths, involve immersing our bodies in cold water that ranges in temperatures from 35°F – 55°F. These plunges are often used by health enthusiasts and athletes for things like recovery, reducing muscle soreness, and boosting overall mental well-being. It is only when the water is truly cold and when your body is not used to cold therapy that cold plunges can be dangerous. Otherwise, there is minimal risk associated with adding the practice to your everyday routine.

    If you are a complete beginner to the cold plunging practice we have guides on our website on how to cold plunge and how long you should cold plunge. You do not need to start off in the coldest temperature of water and stay in for a long period of time to start reaping the health benefits of cold water immersion.

    Research has shown that as little as 30, 60, or 90 seconds with consistency can start to positively impact those that take on the practice.

    Here are the Risks Associated With Cold Plunging

    if you are one of those types that like to “mess around and find out” for yourself rather than adhering to the advice above here is what you could risk:

    • Hypothermia: Prolonged periods of time spent in your cold plunge can lead to hypothermia if you are cold plunging in water that is way too cold. Symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, confusion, and loss of coordination.

    • Cardiovascular Stress: Immersing your body in cold water will be a shocking experience at first. If the water is truly too cold those with heart conditions may want to start in higher temperatures.

    • Respiratory Issues: We always tell people to focus on their breathing when they start cold plunging. The sudden gasp or shock may be overwhelming and uncomfortable at first but over time you will get used to it.

    • Shock and Stress

    • Individual Variability: Everyone is different and may have a different reaction to the practice. If you have an underlying condition or are pregnant please consult with a licensed medical professional.

    It should be noted it takes very cold temperatures for our bodies to react in the ways listed above. This is not a common thing to have happen but for those that want to get into cold immersion, it is important to weigh the risks as well as the pros and cons.

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    What Is a Cold Plunge?

    A cold plunge is a practice that involves immersing our bodies in cold water for a short period of time. Studies have shown that cold water immersion has a number of benefits to various physiological and psychological functions for our bodies.

    Professional athletes have been using the practice for decades to help improve muscle recovery times and alleviate muscle soreness after intense exercise. The potential benefits of cold water immersion far outweigh the risks in our opinion, especially if you are a healthy individual who just wants to optimize your body to the best of its capabilities.

    Health Benefits Cold Plunge

    Here is a list of benefits that have been linked to the practice of cold plunging:

    • Stress Relief

    • A better way to combat muscle soreness

    • Improve sleep

    • Promotes weight loss

    • Decrease Inflammation

    • Build mental fortitude

    • An active recovery tool that helps with mental health

    cold water immersion, are they dangerous

    Potential Risks of Cold Plunging

    While there are benefits that are associated with cold plunging you also should be well aware of the risks. In a separate article, we answered the question ‘are cold plunges risky‘. In the above paragraphs, we also laid out the main risks associated with cold plunging but in case you want them again here you go:

    Cold Shock Response

    The shock from the initial temperatures of the water is going to take some getting used to. We advise you to start at temperatures that are not too cold but not too warm. Somewhere around 50°F is a good place to start if you are brand new.

    We personally believe that you should use the practice of cold plunging as a way to not only boost recovery time but as a practice to work on mental toughness. In life, we will have to do many things that are painful in the beginning or maybe even down right uncomfortable, cold plunging can be a great way to build up your mental toughness and help you overcome the limiting belief that comes into your head at these moments.

    It is very easy to just skip out on things, especially when no one is looking. But you are not one of those people. People that read our blog and are interested in the things we talk about are a rare breed of individuals that are meant for more.

    Some will say we are stretching here but to those people that say that we just say they are not our people.

    cold shock response can cause hypothermia if you stay in the water too long

    Hypothermia: The Biggest Risk of Swimming in Cold Water

    The biggest risk you run while cold plunging if going to be hypothermia. it is so easy to not have this happen ad we will lay it out for you point blank and simple.

    Listen to your body and don’t stay in the cold water for too long.

    Don’t go off being a hero that decides to stay in cold water while they are literally shivering and experiencing the symptoms of hypothermia. That is both unintelligent and going to cause you more damage in the long run.

    Cold plunges are supposed to help us reach our peak, not take us away! Use them properly.

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    Diving into the world of cold water immersion, commonly known as cold plunging, offers a unique and refreshing path towards better overall well-being. Whether you are seeking to amplify post-workout recovery or awaken your sense, mastering the techniques of effective cold plunging can unlock a number of physical and mental benefits. In this article, we will look at how to cold plunge properly, let’s dive in!

    How to Cold Plunge Properly

    Cold plunging, also known as cold water immersion, is a practice where you expose your body to cold water for a certain period to reap health benefits. It has been studied that the health benefits one can receive from just 2 -3 minutes of cold exposure can include improved blood flow, reduced muscle soreness, increased alertness, and much more.

    Cold plunging should not be mistaken as a cold shower. The best way to cold plunge is with a dedicated cold plunging device like the ice barrel or cold plunge. While cold showers are a way to get your feet wet for starting the practice of cold water immersion it is not compatible with actually plunging in water temperatures that can be achieved by a dedicated cold plunge tub.

    Here is how you properly cold plunge:

    • Understand the risks associated with cold plunging. If you are pregnant, proceed with caution especially if you are trying out Wim Hof Method.
    • Choose the ideal temperature: Somewhere between 45°F – 60°F depending on how well your body is adjusted to the cold. Remember, you can always work your way to lower temperatures.
    • Control your breathing. Cold plunging is not a painful experience but it is not exactly 100% comfortable. The practice will be shocking at first so focus on deep breathing.
    • Start by immersing your feet, then your legs, and slowly work your way up to your torso. You want to get all the way submerged in the water (that means all the way up to your neck!!!) if you dunk your head in the water it will help your body acclimate to the temperatures.
    • If your cold plunge has a low flow rate, move around in the water to break the thermal layer. This will make the experience of cold plunging more intense and allow for you to see the most benefits over time.
    • Listen to your body throughout the practice
    • Consistently try to get cold exposure or to fit it into your life. The best way to do so is to buy your own tub so you can have the practice right at home but for some that may be out of budget. In this case, try out your local wellness center!
    • You do not need to spend a long period of time to start reaping benefits. You can spend as little as 30 seconds to as long as 5 minutes and still see the benefits of cold plunging.

    Cold plunging may not be suitable for everyone and there may be potential risks associated with the practice if you have underlying health issues. Nonetheless, cold plunging is something that we personally love doing. As an athlete, we take our recovery very seriously and are always looking for ways to help us reach peak performance.

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    Why You Should Do Cold Therapy

    Cold therapy is a therapeutic practice that can be accomplished in a number of ways. Cold water exposure through cold showers or cold plunges is just one of the ways besides cryotherapy to help you get your body exposed to the cold. There have been many studies recently showing the mental and physical benefits associated with exposing our bodies to cold temperatures.

    Cold Plunge Benefits (List)

    Here are some reasons why people choose to engage in the practice of cold plunging:

      • Reduced Muscle Soreness and Inflammation

      • Improved Blood Circulation

      • Pain Relief

      • Stress Relief

      • Mood-Boosting and Heightened Alertness

      • Boost Immune System

      • Improved Sleep

    Cold Plunges vs Cold Showers

    As we stated earlier, cold plunges and cold showers are great ways to introduce a cold plunge routine into your everyday life. Cold showers cannot replicate a cold plunge though.

    Just taking a cold shower is not ideal for those that want to take the practice of cold water immersion seriously, the water temperatures just cannot get as low as a cold plunge so it is harder to replicate. While a cold shower is a great way to get started, cold plunges are superior due to their controllability. The water temperatures that are ideal for getting the most out of cold exposure therapy are around 45°F – 55°F.

    Boty ice baths and cold plunges have the capability of getting much colder while cold water from a shower is not.

    What is The Best Way to Get Cold Exposure? The Plunge

    Our personal favorite way to get cold exposure is by cold plunging in the Plunge Tub. The Plunge tub is the most recognizable cold plunge tub on the market that is great for both commercial and residential use. Whether you are a complete beginner or a cold plunging junkie, the plunge is an amazing way to build mental fortitude, reduce inflammation, boost energy levels, and increase your overall well-being.

    how to cold plunge properly with the plunge

    It is common to flinch at the price tags of cold plunge tubs so you need to know what you are buying before you move forward. The Plunge is rated the best overall cold plunge on the market for a reason. This device can be financed for as low as $115/month with 0% APR.

    The options are endless for this tub, take your health to the next level today!

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    Tips for your First Cold Plunge

    Here are three tips for your first experience with cold plunging:

    Plunge Early in the day

    The reason you should start your day off with a cold plunge is simple: you get the shock you need to start the day and you do something challenging.

    Music & Timers

    Practicing cold plunges can be an uncomfortable feeling for some people. Putting music and setting short-timers can be very beneficial for those that are just getting started.

    BREATHE

    We have said it before and we will say it again. Focus on your breath to get past the initial shock you’ll get from the frigid temperatures. You are putting your body through a form of active recovery while submerged, give it what it needs!

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    Table of Contents

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    Cold showers and cold plunging are a great way to expose our bodies to new stimuli while being able to reap health benefits that help us boost performance on and off the mats. Martial arts is something that demands a lot out of our bodies and we have to be deliberate about the things we do so that we can see this journey all the way through to the end. In this article, we will discuss how athletes or general health enthusiasts can benefit from taking a cold shower.

    The Benefits of Cold Shower

    It is said that cold showers have a number of health benefits very similar to that of a cold plunge. Now, it is very important to note, cold showers are not cold plunges and do not get you the same results. If you want to take this one step further and reap the most benefits of cold water exposure you should consider getting a cold plunge tub for yourself.

    Now that we have gotten that out of the way, lets look at some of the health benefits that research has found associated with taking cold showers!

    Boost Alertness (wakes you up)

    A few minutes in a cold shower first thing in the morning is bound to wake you up and make you feel more alert! Cold showers in the morning are a great way to apply cold therapy and help start off your day on the right foot.

    When we wake up, it is common to feel lethargic until that first cup of coffee is down the hatch but lately, we have been trying to when back on the reliance on caffeine to start off our day. What we have supplemented that with instead is a cold shower! It’s the perfect way to get the blood pumping!

    Boost Immune System

    Cold showers can make you less likely to get ill. Starting off your shower, you can keep it warm and just have the last 30, 60, or 90 seconds cold. Studies show that people who take cold showers are 29% less likely to take sick days at work and if you work exercise into this equation the same study found that you were 54% less likely to take work off for being sick!

    Reduce Muscle Soreness

    Cold water immersion has been shown to help athletes or health enthusiasts to reduce muscle soreness and decrease their overall levels of inflammation in their joints. The reason why athletes have been taking ice baths after intense levels of exercise is due to the health benefits associated with the practice.

    Cold showers is a way for us to get cold water exposure without have to buy an expensive cold plunge tub. While the benefits of plunging in your own dedicated cold plunging device significantly outweigh what we can get from a cold shower, cold showers can still be a great segway into a more deliberate practice.

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    Should You Cold Shower After Training or Before?

    In the summertime where we love to take cold showers after intense training sessions. It is already hot inside the gym and we are sweating a ton so the cold water helps our bodies cool down. Not to mention when we get out we feel refreshed and recharged even after just beating our bodies up for an hour.

    We do not take cold showers at night though. Even in the summertime.

    Now, when it is winter, we try to avoid cold showers like the plague. Something just doesn’t personally sit right when it’s cold outside and you volunteer yourself to take a cold shower. Doesn’t sound like a pleasurable experience.

    We are not in the camp that will tell you to shower before training either… first off that makes zero sense. Why would you shower before you are about to sweat and get dirty to go ahead and shower again? Big waste of time.

    Cold Showers vs Cold Plunges

    Cold plunges and cold showers are not going to have the same effects. Since cold plunge devices use electricity from a chilling unit, the water temperature can get much colder with a cold plunge device versus what you can get with a cold shower.

    Cold showers are a good way to get cold exposure but it is not the most effective way to reap the benefits of cold water immersion. By far the best, and most controllable, way to reap the benefits of cold therapy is by taking cold plunges in a tub designed for plunging or a body of water that is in a cold climate. In a matter of minutes a cold plunge can trigger the survival mode of your body while cold showers typically do not have the same effect.

    Cold Showers are a Good Warm Up to Actually Cold Plunging

    We said what we said. There is no way we would go around saying that a cold shower could even replicate the benefits of cold water immersion with a plunge tub, it is at best a warm-up for the actual practice.

    In our personal experience, cold showers are not really that beneficial to our mental fortitude compared to a cold plunge. You do not have to go out and buy one (a cold plunge tub) yourself to go and experience the difference. Go t a local store and figure it out for yourself, the proof is in the pudding.

    At this point, we have spent hundreds of hours both testing and researching the benefits of cold plunges. While there are scientific evidence-based effects for both forms of cold water immersion there is no way a shower could replicate what a cold plunge could do for you.

    Conclusion

    Taking a cold shower first thing in the morning is a great way to start the day but it may not be the most comfortable thing to get used to. There is no growth in comfort. We actively need to be looking for ways to help improve our minds, bodies, and souls. Martial arts is already a great way to do it already, throw in a cold shower a couple of times a week and you’ll be getting double the work!

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    Breathing exercises are known as very beneficial for people’s overall well-being. So, practicing breathing techniques has become widely recommended worldwide because of its extraordinary perks. One of the most popular ones is Wim Hof Breathing Method which incorporates methods that help you connect with your body deeply. It is a method that provides you with health improvements healthily and naturally. 

    However, to be able to perform Wim Hof breathing exercises, you need to learn how to do it right. It is a concept that includes several notions, and you need to be familiar with all of them for the best results. Wim hof Breathing Method is a practice that works to combine cold plunging with breathwork. In this article, we cover the basics of the Wim Hof method so you can understand what it is all about.

    What is Wim Hof Breathing Method?

    Wim Hof breathing technique is one of the three components that make the Wim Hof Method. Namely, the three pillars of the method include breathing exercises, cold exposure, and commitment. Each of these is equally important to reach the optimal results of the method and experience positive changes in overall physical and mental health. 

    • Breathing exercises: They increase your body’s oxygen levels by controlled deep breathing. It is a sort of meditation practice that helps you relax your entire body and strengthen your nervous system. 

    • Cold therapy: One of the most popular practices of the Wim Hof technique is the use of ice baths. Athletes have mostly used cold exposure for treating sore muscles. Nonetheless, nowadays, extremely cold temperatures of water are used by many for treating several health issues, such as chronic pain, weak immune system, increased blood pressure, and so on. 

    • Commitment: This is a crucial part of the Wim Hof Method because the benefits do not happen overnight. Moreover, the techniques are not easily performed, requiring preparation and, most importantly, patience. Truly committing to the method is half of its success.

    Not accidentally, the Wim Hof breathing technique is the first pillar of the method. More specifically, you need to begin with breathing exercises if you intend to perform the whole process and take advantage of the perks. 

    Wim Hof breathing is about focusing on a naturally unconscious process. Most of the time, we are not aware of our breathing. However, the technique is intended to teach you how to focus on the process and make it controlled. Through conscious breathing, your mind connects with your body, and you get control of the actions your body is performing. In other words, you become more focused and conscious about yourself and your surroundings. 

    Wim Hof breathing is achieved through a period of controlled hyperventilation, which is then followed by a period of breath holding. The goal is to inhale deeply and then exhale naturally. You will learn how to let breath leave your body without any force. Even though this may seem easy, the breathing technique requires practice and patience.

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    What is Wim Hof Breathing Method?

    Who Created The Method

    The Wim Hof Method was created by a Dutch athlete – Wim Hof, also known as The Iceman. He believes that any limits disappear when you master control over your body. This resulted in him putting his body on the cold exposure test continuously. With the help of breathing techniques and ice baths, he managed to gain control and gradually withstand extremely cold temperatures. He created the method to prove that whatever you set your heart on can be achieved if you are fully committed and willing to be patient with your body. 

    Through cold therapy, he has succeeded in breaking many records, such as standing in an ice-cube-covered container for 112, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in shorts, as well as completing half a marathon barefoot around the Arctic Circle. 

    Cold exposure was the force that taught him how to endure extreme conditions and break his own limitations. His committed training enabled him to gain control of his heart rate and his breathing. More importantly, the training has improved his blood circulation, enabling him to withstand various weather conditions and freezing temperatures.

    Moreover, when creating his method, Wim Hof was guided by the belief that what he can do, everyone can learn to do. In other words, he bases his technique on the power of commitment and willingness. He does not believe he is a man of superpowers but rather a man who learned how to take control of his body. Incorporating breathing exercises and cold therapy has allowed him to do what was previously considered impossible.

    In short, the Wim Hof Method is not based on superpowers but on powers that everybody possesses so long they are controlled mindfully. Considering this, it is no wonder that Wim Hof method practice has become greatly popular all over the world.

    What is Wim Hof Breathing Method?

    Why Is Wim Hof Breathing Good For You?

    The Wim Hof Method is not so famous for nothing. Namely, its fame carries many benefits for both physical and mental health. The breathing techniques, along with cold exposure that the method teaches you, can have a significant impact on your whole body. Moreover, it encourages you to dedicate yourself to something really powerful. 

    Some of the scientifically proven perks of the Wim Hof Method regarding breathing are the following: 

    • Increased energy levels 

    Controlled breathing can make you more energized throughout the day. Since the method includes a lot of focus, your brain tends to sharpen and make you more productive. In other words, you train your brain to become more conscious through breathing techniques. Although you exercise to perfect your controlled breathing, your brain absorbs the process and develops heightened focus leading to improved energy levels.

    • Stress relief  

    The Wim Hof Method is intended to serve as a stress reliever. Becoming more calm and more relaxed is achieved through adequate breathing exercises. The process of controlled hyperventilation in combination with breath holding is the right way to get rid of negative energy and become more tranquil. It is something that everyone needs daily, considering we all tend to lead quite busy lives. 

    • Stronger immune system 

    This might not be news to you – breathing is connected to your immune system. Therefore, incorporating breathing techniques into your daily routine can do wonders for your body and significantly strengthen your immune system. In other words, you will become more resilient to the impacts of your surroundings, and your body will learn how to fight bacteria and viruses successfully. 

    • Improved determination and willingness 

    Wim Hof has based his method on determination and willingness, so this is what you get when you perform it. You cannot do anything without a strong will and dedication, and the method encourages you to push yourself over the limits. If you want to see the results that Wim Hof guarantees, you need to have a strong determination to do so. However, your determination for the Wim Hof Method stays with you, meaning you will learn to be determined for everything in life.

    • Better sleep 

    The Wim Hof method’s breathing benefits include the improvement of sleep. That is, through breath holds and controlled practice, you allow your body to release too much carbon dioxide. That way, your body becomes more relaxed, so you sleep better at night.

    • Improved athletic performance 

    The breathing exercises can help you release concentrated red blood cells into the bloodstream. This is known to improve athletic performance and remove obstacles for people significantly invested in sports.

    Why Wim Hof Works

    While there are a lot of studies that show different results, many of them have reached common ground. Many of them have concluded the same benefits of the Wim Hof Method. Moreover, many people have tried breathing techniques along with cold exposure, and their experience proves that the method has effects. 

    In addition, people who have performed the Wim Hof technique have reported both physical and psychological results. They have said that the method has provided them with profound experiences they have never witnessed before. Even though sometimes breathing exercises and ice baths can seem simple, they are actually a part of something very complex. Namely, it is something that can be achieved only through the power of your determination and willingness. 

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    Exposing yourself to extreme water temperatures while consciously breathing requires skills you can only develop through practice and dedication. The Wim Hof Method works because you expose your body and mind to extreme circumstances that allow you to achieve a deeper connection with yourself. You get to see your limits, and you have the opportunity to go over them, which is a very powerful and complex notion. 

    In other words, when you perform the Wim Hof method, you enter a different state of yourself. You learn that you can withstand extreme temperatures and control your body through breath holds. And once you reach this state, you become unstoppable!  

    Are there any Risks to Wim Hof Breathing?

    Even though the Wim Hof technique of breathing has reached a certain level of popularity, which continues to increase, it is essential to point out that there might be some risks involved in the method. It is necessary to be informed well before beginning the whole process because you do not want unpleasant surprises. 

    First, it is important to note that you should not get involved in the Wim Hof technique of breathing if you have specific health issues. These issues include respiratory problems, such as asthma, a history of seizures or stroke, and low or high blood pressure. Moreover, the method is not recommended for pregnant women

    Second, being prepared for the occurrences that might appear while practicing breathing and cold exposure is a must. That is, you have to be aware of what might happen because the entire process will be your responsibility. 

    When it comes to Wim Hof Method breathing practice, you might experience dizziness or lightheadedness. These are expected occurrences when hyperventilating. In addition, you should be aware that hyperventilation comes with certain risks, such as: 

    • Fainting due to lack of blood flow to the brain

    • Deprivation of oxygen in the brain 

    • Harmful effect on the brain in people who have experienced traumatic brain injury

    Considering these risks, it is also essential to note that the Wim Hof breathing practice should not be done in water or during cold showers. Since these are circumstances in which the person is most likely alone, the environment is not safe.

    What is Wim Hof Breathing Method?

    Breathing Methods

    Since the foundation of the Wim Hof Method is the practice of breathing, you need to start with that. Therefore, learning how to perfect your breathing skills plays a crucial role if you decide to try ice baths and experience the benefits of cold exposure. 

    The Wim Hof Method breathing practice includes the following several steps: 

    1. Find a position in which you feel comfortable. 

    2. Take a deep breath through your mouth or nose and through the belly to the chest. Then exhale without using any force. 

    3. Immediately breathe in again. 

    4. Repeat this process 30 times. 

    5. On your 30th breath, exhale to 90% and hold on as much as you can (at least 15 seconds). This is the final step of the process. 

    6. Repeat the whole process 3 to 4 times

    7. Once you are finished, make sure you take some time to meditate and enjoy the state of deep relaxation. 

    The Wim Hof website recommends that you do the Wim Hof Method breathing practice every day. The goal of the breathing technique is to reach a state in which your 30 breaths come close together, and it feels like hyperventilation. However, this is controlled hyperventilation in which you have perfected the deep breath holds.

    People who have been doing the Wim Hof breathing practice for some time might try doing the exercises while taking cold showers. Once a person becomes comfortable with the breathing concepts, they might try doing them during ice baths. These advanced techniques will allow you to become more resilient to cold temperatures and experience the effects of the Wim Hof Method.

    What is Wim Hof Breathing Method?

    Wim Hof For Athletic performance

    Athletes first used the Wim Hof Method since it was already well-known that extreme-cold showers and baths are good for treating sore muscles. That is the main reason why many gyms have started to offer cold plunges. Nonetheless, the method comes with more benefits than just dealing with sore muscles. 

    Namely, some studies have shown that the Wim Hof Method can improve the performance of athletes. One research with a group of athletes has concluded that the method does not have a direct effect on repeated sprint ability. However, it has shown that participants were more determined to do the sprinting after the Wim Hof Method conduct. 

    Therefore, this has shown that the method might not have a direct impact on repeated sprint ability. Nonetheless, it has impacted the participants in the repeated sprinting performance to show willpower and determination to do the activity. These are psychological effects that cannot be ignored.

    On the other hand, another study on cyclists has shown the direct effects of the Wim Hof Method. That is, the performance of the participants after the breathing method has improved in time acceleration. It means that the breathing practice has given them more energy, and they have performed better.

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    Online Wim Hof Method training

    While there are instructors who can help you practice the Wim Hof Method, you might not be a fan of in-person training. That is completely normal since the techniques are complex, and you might want to do them on your own. So, you have the option to do online training with the options that the website of the official Wim Hof Method offers. 

    There are numerous courses in different styles, so you can choose whatever suits you. Even if you have a busy schedule, there are options that will allow you to do your training for a short time. Moreover, there is also a suitable Wim Hof mobile app, so you can easily go through your courses wherever you are. 

    Nonetheless, the best thing about the Wim Hof online courses is that they are designed to guide you through the exercises for breathing, meditation, cold showers, cold plunging, and more. Plus, they also give you homework exercises you should do in your own time. 

    When it comes to online training for breathing methods, you should know that it is not recommended that you overdo it. The breathing practices typically last for about 20 minutes, but you should not rush yourself. You do not want to be discouraged if you feel like you cannot do something perfectly at a given moment. Therefore, make sure you listen to your body while adapting it to the online course. 

    What is Wim Hof Breathing Method?

    Physical Health Benefits of Wim Hof Breathing Method

    While I mentioned some of the benefits to explain why the Wim Hof Method can be good for you, I would like to give you some specifics when it comes to the physical health perks. The Wim Hof technique can improve your physical state in so many ways, so the hard work to reach great results will really pay off.

    Some of the greatest physical benefits you can experience after trying the Wim Hof technique are the following:

    • Reduces the levels of inflammation and disease activity

    • Natural arthritis relief 

    • Significant workout recovery 

    • Lowers the blood pressure

    • Improves metabolism 

    • Improves the cardiovascular system 

    Mental Health Benefits of Wim Hof Breathing Method

    The Wim Hof technique has equal impacts on mental health as well. Some studies argue that the Wim Hof Method is more beneficial when it comes to psychological improvements in the body. However, it goes without saying that each individual reacts differently, so you need to try and see how the method will impact you.

    Some of the greatest mental benefits you can experience after trying the Wim Hof technique are the following: 

    • Improves brain activity

    • Helps with dealing with depression

    • Increases concentration 

    • Creates a powerful link between the body and the mind 

    • Helps to control the autonomic nervous system 

    • Boosts creativity

    • Helps create a life balance

    The Science Behind the Wim Hof Breathing Method

    The first pillar of the Wim Hof Method is breathing. Many people believe that this is an automatic activity that everyone does, so practicing might not be something crucial. Nonetheless, it is very important to acknowledge the fact that the goal of the Wim Hof concept is to make breathing conscious and focused. It is breathing that helps you withstand the next pillar of the method, i.e., extreme cold exposure. 

    In other words, you need to understand the science that stands behind the method. When we breathe, we inhale oxygen to power our cells and then exhale carbon dioxide, which is basically waste. In the breathing process of the Wim Hof concept, we are working towards increasing the levels of oxygen and decreasing the levels of carbon dioxide absorption. 

    However, this cannot happen if we do not learn how to breathe consciously. More precisely, our goal is to make an unconscious activity a conscious one and take control over our entire body in a whole different way.

    What is Wim Hof Breathing Method?

    Wim Hof Breathing vs. Yoga Breathing

    Often, Wim Hof practice of breathing and yoga breathing is regarded as the same. While it is true that they have similarities, they still have distinguished features that make them separate notions. It is obvious that both practices focus on conscious, mindful breathing, but what makes them different is their end goal. Even though some of their benefits intertwine, they are still used for distinguished reasons. 

    If you are thinking about incorporating one of them into your daily routine, you first need to learn their characteristics. Moreover, you need to know what you want to get out of the practice so you can reach your expected results. 

    First, you need to understand that the Wim Hof Method is focused on controlling your body. So, when it comes to breathing, the goal is to prepare your mind and body for a response to stress and for strengthening your immune system. The main goal is this because the next step of the method is exposure to cold temperatures. So, basically, with breathing, you are preparing your body for the shocking change that will occur to it. 

    On the other hand, yoga breathing is intended to calm your mind and body. In addition, its goal is to reduce stress and promote overall physical and mental health being. It teaches you to let go of your thoughts and make peace with your reality. Plus, it encourages you to embrace positivity in everything. 

    Furthermore, yoga breathing has different variations used for different purposes. Wim Hof breathing practice has one structure that needs to be repeated several times until you gain comfort doing it.  

    While the end goals of both practices seem similar and their benefits often overlap, they need to be regarded as different concepts.

    Trying the Wim Hof Method is a completely unique experience that will bring you numerous perks. It is challenging and requires a lot of dedication and work, but the results are unparalleled. Perfecting your breathing will inspire you to do more and achieve more. So, take a final deep breath and say, “I”can”!”

    If you want to look into the best tubs for ice baths, check out this article.

    The Best Cold Plunge Tub | Grapplers Graveyard

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    Cold Plunge pros and cons need to be addressed. We have reviewed just about every cold plunge on the market at this point (read more here) and each tub has its own list of pros and cons. This article is not a breakdown of specific tubs, we will be looking at the practice from a high level. 

    Cold Plunge Pros and Cons

    Cold plunging is all the rage right now. If you are in the camp that is looking to give the practice a try or maybe even pull the trigger and buy your own plunge device it is important to understand a number of topics, one of those being the pros and cons.

    Now, on each of the reviews that we have written on our site each cold plunge has its own list of pros and cons. This article is not talking about a specific device, we are looking at the practice of cold plunging as a whole. 

    After reviewing all the best cold plunges on the market and doing extensive research on what makes a cold plunge good (or bad) we have a great understanding and want to share with those that are seeking this kind of information.

    Let’s dive in!

    Pros of Cold Plunging

    We like to always start off with the good news first. Here is a list of Pros of doing the practice of cold plunging or just owning your own:

    • Health Benefits Associated with Cold Plunging
    • Taking Recovery more seriously
    • Boost mental resilience
    • Great way to make content if you wanted to start building a personal brand
    • Great way to build a community 
    • A good habit to build with friends and family

    There have been many studies showing the health (both physical and mental) benefits of cold plunging. Cold Plunging is a great way to take your health to the next level and is perfect for athletes or even people who just love to work out.

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    Cons of Cold Plunging

    The cons that are associated with cold plunging, in general, are the following:

    • Most Tubs are quite expensive
    • Not Handicap Friendly
    • Because of the cost, most people do not even give it a try
    • There is a lot of research that goes into the buying process

    The cons that we have seen from many devices mainly have to do with price. The vast majority of people do not have $1,200 – $5,000 to invest right away into a cold plunge. Many people do decide to finance the tubs that they purchase but it is still a pretty costly thing to get into.

    If you wanted to avoid buying your own cold plunge you can always support local businesses that have them inside their centers! Typically, a recovery session is somewhere around $50 so if you want to just give the practice a try before deciding if it’s something you want to bring home, you high encourage yourself to do so. 

    Whatever it is you decide to do, you should do your homework behind cold plunging. It is something that is actually really cool to learn about. The process of writing all these blog posts has really deepened our knowledge of the subject. You can find everything about cold plunging right on Grapplers Graveyard!

    The Cold Plunge

    PLUNGE | A Revolutionary Cold Plunge Ice Bath

    The Plunge cold plunge tub uses powerful cooling, filtration, and sanitation to give you perfectly chilled, clean water whenever you want it—no ice needed. The Plunge is designed for indoor or outdoor use, and we've made installation a breeze. Just fill your Plunge with a hose, set your temp (as low as 39°F), and get ready to change your life.

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    Pros of The Cold Plunge

    • There are many options to choose from
    • Sleek Design 
    • Ability to Finance for as little as $173/month
    • Get all the benefits of plunging right into your home
    • Option of 3 or 5-year warranty but comes with a 1-year warranty
    • You get a rubber ducky with the purchase

    Cons of The Cold Plunge

    • Long lead time (2-3 weeks)
    • Shipping is not entirely international
    • The standard model is $5,000
    • Does not come with cleaner products
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    Table of Contents

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    Joe Rogan is a huge advocate for cold plunging and taking ice baths as are we. There is scientific evidence that backs up the fact that just a couple of minutes submerged in cold water a day can significantly boost things like mood and recovery time (source). In this article, we discuss the two cold plunges that Joe Rogan owns in a little more in-depth since they are two of the best cold plunges on the market right now.

    What is the Best Cold Plunge?

    The best cold plunge on the markets by far are the ones Crafted by these three companies: BlueCube, Odin Plunge, and Morozko. The state-of-the-art craftsmanship is on display with these devices and you can not only see it with the design but also with the specs that are important to cold plunging devices.

    To date, we have written and reviewed almost all the top cold plunge devices and have looked to see which is the best for commercial use and residential use. The top cold plunges have the following things listed and stated on their descriptions (things to know before buying):

    After reviewing the majority of the cold plunging devices on the market, here is how we would rank the cold plunges from top to bottom in order:

    cold therapy, cold exposure, and cold water immersion with a cold plunge device, best ways to get cold exposure

    List of Top Cold Plunges (In Oder):

    1. BlueCube (Review)

    2. Odin Ice Baths (Review)

    3. Plunge (Review)

    4. Morozko

    5. Inergize Health (Review)

    6. Polar Monkeys (Review)

    7. The Ice Barrel (Review)

    8. Redwood Outdoors

    9. All “Affordable Options”

    This will be an ever-evolving list. As we review more cold plunges and more companies start coming up with new things this will change!

    1. Bluecube Cold Plunge

      Looking for a premier cold plunging experience? Look no further than Bluecube! With the highest flowrate and most powerful chiller on the market, Bluecube completely separates itself from every cold plunge out. Use code 'GrapplersGraveyard' for a $250 discount on your purchase.

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    2. PLUNGE | A Revolutionary Cold Plunge Ice Bath

      The Plunge cold plunge tub uses powerful cooling, filtration, and sanitation to give you perfectly chilled, clean water whenever you want it—no ice needed. The Plunge is designed for indoor or outdoor use, and we've made installation a breeze. Just fill your Plunge with a hose, set your temp (as low as 39°F), and get ready to change your life.

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    3. Inergize Health | The Ultra-Portable Cold Plunge

      The tub is crafted with military-grade durability suited for the outdoors and sets up in just 15 minutes. Use code 'GRAPPLER' to save $150 on your purchase

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    4. Polar Monkeys | Powerful Cold Plunge

      Experience the future of cold plunging with the Brainpod 2.0. This state-of-the-art fully insulated plunge tub redefines your chilling experience, harnessing robust cooling, filtration, and sanitation mechanisms to provide crystal-clear, ice-free, and perfectly chilled water at your convenience. Versatile for indoor and outdoor settings and embark on a life-transforming journey. 

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    5. Redwood Outdoors | Yukon Cold Plunge Kit

      Make cold therapy part of your wellness routine. This plunge tub kit provides you everything you need to get started, a portable plunge tub and an easy to use electric chiller. Choose this plunge kit and perform at your peak today!

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    6. Ice Barrel 300 | Cold Therapy Training Tool

      The Ice Barrel 300 is a sleek, fully insulated cold therapy tool that makes it easy to bring ice baths to your routine. Compact and lightweight, the Ice Barrel 300 is simple to use whether you’re using ice or a chiller. Save up to $300 using code 'Grapplersgraveyard' at checkout

      Pros:
      • Chiller compatible
      • Great Entry Cold Plunge
      • Portable and easy to move (without water)
      • Just Add Ice
      Cons:
      • Does not come with a chiller
      • Have to add ice
      Size: W 35.5” x H 30.5” (Fits most body types up to 6’2” and 250 pounds)
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    7. Ice Bath Tub for Athletes

      Best budget-friendly cold plunge tub. *Does not come with ice or a chiller*

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    8. Ice Baths and Plunge Odin Ice Baths USA

      The Odin Ice Bath is the world's first plug-in cedar ice bath! Customize yours today! use code 'BOWTIED' to save on your purchase

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    Joe Rogan Ice Bath: BlueCube

    Currently, Joe Ragan has two ice baths, one at his studio and one at home. The two cold plunge devices that he owns on some of the best (and higher priced) cold plunges on the market. The practice has gotten increasingly popular due to the influence that Joe Rogan has from being a podcast host and having multiple guests on, like Andrew Hubman, to back up the claims for the benefits of cold exposure.

    If you are looking for a way to push yourself mentally, get uncomfortable, boost energy levels, and improve overall health cold plunging is something that should be considered.

    joe rogan ice bath, morozko forge vs blue cube

    BlueCube Vs. Morozko

    The main difference between the two cold plunging devices is that BlueCube Ice baths (review) are commercially capable while Morozoko is not.

    Morozko prides itself on the fact that its cold plunges can get so cold that it can create ice. This is unsanitary, as ice cannot circulate through filtration systems and zonation. You can not cold plunge back to back in Morozoko’s tub due to the low amount of circulation of the water. The water will heat up from one person plunging into the tub.

    If you own a wellness spa or gym, this means you need a 15-minute cool-down period between guests.

    Both cold plunges pretty much sit within the same price range and have great warranties.

    Highest Quality Cold Plunge Device
    Bluecube Cold Plunge

    Looking for a premier cold plunging experience? Look no further than Bluecube! With the highest flowrate and most powerful chiller on the market, Bluecube completely separates itself from every cold plunge out. Use code 'GrapplersGraveyard' for a $250 discount on your purchase.

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    Why ice baths are good for you

    Cold plunges and ice baths are extremely good for your mental and physical well-being. The benefits of just plunging in the cold temperatures you get from these tubs have scientific evidence that states that it boosts things like recovery time, mental clarity, and other physiological processes in the body.

    Extremely cold water puts our bodies in a state of shock that almost forces us into deep breathing exercises. This helps athletes and health enthusiasts around the world get the most out of their minds and bodies.

    Can Help Improve Recovery Time

    One thing that ice baths and cold plunges help with is improving the time it takes to recover from strenuous exercise. Athletes have been taking ice baths in training facilities for decades now, we even started doing it ourselves back when we were still playing high school sports.

    Intense workouts take a lot out of your body especially as you age. Cold plunges immediately after working out or the following day can help in reducing inflammation and reducing muscle soreness.

    How long should my first cold plunge be?

    Cold plunges should not be too long. you do not have to sit in the cold water for more than a couple minutes especially if you are a beginner to the practice. Even experienced plungers can reap the benefits of a cold plunge by just spending 2 minutes submerged neck deep in the water.

    Joe Rogan is a bit of a maniac and has stated that he will sometimes stay in the tub for as long as 13 minutes. Now in a tub like the one created by BlueCube that is a serious accomplishment. The reason we say this is because BlueCubes cold plunge is the best on the market at breaking up the thermal layer that builds up under our skin in an attempt to keep us warm through the high flow rate systems that they create.

    Cold plunges that break the thermal layer make the experience of cold plunging much more challenging. The practice is more intense and you reap more benefits the better the flow of the water. If you are looking to add a cold plunge routine to your life, you should seriously consider getting a tub that has a high flow rate.

    There are only a few that really state the speed at which their pumps circulate the water within the tub so be sure to read through product descriptions before making a purchase.

    joe rogan ice bath

    What Cold Plunge Tub Does Joe Rogan Use?

    Joe Rogan has two cold plunges. He has the Cold Plunge from Morozko Forge and BlueCube. You can find the cold plunge device from BlueCube below and snag a $250 discount on your purchase when using the code ‘GrapplersGraveyard’. if you are a martial artist or health enthusiast like Joe, the benefits of cold plunging can massively help you in a number of ways. Finance the best cold plunge tub on the market today!

    Highest Quality Cold Plunge Device
    Bluecube Cold Plunge

    Looking for a premier cold plunging experience? Look no further than Bluecube! With the highest flowrate and most powerful chiller on the market, Bluecube completely separates itself from every cold plunge out. Use code 'GrapplersGraveyard' for a $250 discount on your purchase.

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    You can keep your cold plunge device clean and sanitized with either UV light or ozone filtration systems. Most of the time, this is an overlooked item by people who buy the tub, but for those that want to make sure they get the most out of their money, those that like to dig in the weeds, or those who may want to build their own, this topic is important. In this article, we will analyze uv light vs ozone filtration systems for cold plunges.

    UV Light Filtration for Cold Plunges

    An Ultraviolet (UV) water filtration system is a system that disinfects water by using germicidal UV. UV systems have a chamber that allows water to flow through it. Inside the chamber, light is emitted (at a UV wavelength) that deactivates any living organism that is in the water supply so the water stays clean.

    UV Light filtration is a popular method to sanitize cold plunges by many top companies that manufacture the devices (Odin Cold Plunge). The UV light is usually installed with the plumbing system of the cold plunge and is turned on when the water starts to circulate.

    What is UV Light System?

    UV stands for ultraviolet. UV light is produced by a bulb that has a wavelength of light that disinfects the water is in contact with. The UV light deactivates living organisms so they cannot reproduce 

    How Does it Work?

    A UV Light filtration system works by exposing living organisms, like bacteria or viruses, to an ultraviolet wavelength that scrambles the DNA of the organisms. They can no longer reproduce or make you sick.

    Does a UV System Require Maintenance?

    UV systems do need maintenance. There is no water filtration system out there that won’t need a little bit of checking in. Regardless of the option you end up going with you will need to keep things up to date to make sure nothing goes wrong with the investment you made into your cold plunge device.

    From what it looks like, most UV systems only require that the UV lamp to be replaced once a year. Typically, the mercury that fuels the lamp last about 375 days (or about 9,000 hours) if you run your cold plunge 24/7 (which most high-end tubs do anyways).

    When buying a cold plunge be sure to reach out to the companies that ship to make sure you understand the maintenance it may need.

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    O-Zone Filtration for Cold Plunges

    O-Zone filtration is another method used by many cold plunges on the market for keeping water inside the tub clean and sanitized. This method works by using ozone (a form of oxygen) to kill bacteria and other living organisms that may be found in the water.

    How Does it Work?

    Ozone is usually generated by an ozone generator which is installed in the plumbing system of the cold plunge. An ozone filtration is an effective and less expensive option to go with if you plan on building your own cold plunge. Typically, when you are buying a premade plunge, the difference in systems is not really an option to choose from.

    Everything to Know About Micron Filters

    Micron filters, also known as microfilters or microporous filters, are essential devices used for the filtration of liquids and gases. These filters are designed to remove particles and contaminants from a fluid stream based on their particle size. The term “micron” refers to the unit of measurement used to quantify the size of particles a filter can capture. One micron is equivalent to one-millionth of a meter.

    These filters are commonly used in various industries, such as water treatment, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, automotive, electronics, and more. In water purification systems, micron filters help remove sediment, dirt, bacteria, and other impurities, improving the water’s quality and safety.

    The effectiveness of a micron filter is determined by its micron rating. For example, a filter with a 5-micron rating can capture particles as small as 5 micrometers in size. The smaller the micron rating the better the filter is at catching those pesky particles that end up in the water. 

    Which Method is Best for Your Cold Plunge?

    Unless you plan on building your own cold plunge, the filtration system is not really a big deal breaker in our opinion. If you had to choose the “less costly option” we would say to go with the ozone.

    For most tubs on the market, UV light filtration is an add-on, many of the most popular tubs use ozone. Out side of that initial cost, the only recurring cost that is associated with UV light filtration is the replacement of the lamp once a year. 

    While ozone is labeled as the more affordable option, ozone filters may require a little more maintenance on your end. Either way, they both are an effective way to filter and keep water inside your cold plunge clean and sanitized.

    The Best Cold Plunge Tub | Grapplers Graveyard

    Find the top rated cold plunges here. In depth reviews and commentary on the best cold plunge devices on the market. Find exclusive discounts and much more.

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