Contrast shower

Contrast shower

A Contrast shower is a form of hydrotherapy using water in a shower, alternating the temperatures between hot and cold.

Contrast hydrotherapy techniques improve the blood circulation, promoting the removal of metabolites and increasing the flow of immune molecules.[1] It is also used as a method for recovery after strenuous exercise. Some athletes use contrast showers reduce the levels of lactic acid in muscles, thereby reducing or avoiding muscle soreness.[2] Recent scientific evidence maintains that lactic acid buildup is correlated with, but not the cause of metabolic acidosis.[3]

Various cycles can be used, always ending with a cold cycle.[4]

  • 3 minutes hot, 1 minute cold
  • 2 minutes hot, 1 minute cold
  • 1 minute hot, 1 minute cold

See also

References

  1. ^ Handbook for Natural Remedies By Branden Albertsen
  2. ^ Training recovery - Australian Institute of Sport
  3. ^ R. Robergs, F. Ghiasvand, D. Parker (2004). "Biochemistry of exercise-induced metabolic acidosis". Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 287 (3): R502–16. doi:10.1152/ajpregu.00114.2004. PMID 15308499. 
  4. ^ Hydrotherapy « Naturopathic Milestones

External links