2432: Do Ice Baths Reduce Muscle Growth? by Christian Finn of Muscle Evo on Cold Water Immersion

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Episode 2432:

Christian Finn's article explores the controversial practice of cold water immersion after workouts. While acknowledging benefits like reduced soreness and improved mood, Finn delves into research suggesting that ice baths might impede muscle growth. He highlights studies showing less muscle hypertrophy in those using ice baths post-exercise, proposing that ice baths may diminish the body's natural muscle-building response. Finn also discusses the possibility of psychological effects playing a role in perceived recovery benefits.

Read along with the original article(s) here: https://muscleevo.net/ice-baths-muscle-growth/

Quotes to ponder:

"Cold water immersion appeared to put the brakes on muscle growth, with the passive recovery group – the guys who sat in a chair for 15 minutes after each workout – posting the biggest increase in the size of their fast-twitch muscle fibers."

"In short, by working against your body’s natural response to tissue damage, you may end up slowing your progress rather than speeding it up."

Episode references:

Journal of Physiology: https://physoc.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/14697793

Endure: Mind, Body, and the Curiously Elastic Limits of Human Performance by Alex Hutchinson: https://www.amazon.com/Endure-Curiously-Elastic-Limits-Performance/dp/0062499866

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