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Recovery

Cold Therapy (Cryotherapy)

Application of cold to reduce inflammation and aid recovery.

Cold therapy includes ice baths, cold showers, and cryotherapy chambers. Cold reduces inflammation, numbs pain, and may speed recovery from acute injuries. However, regular cold exposure immediately after training may blunt hypertrophy adaptations by reducing the inflammatory response necessary for muscle growth.

Examples

  • Ice bath at 10-15°C for 10-15 minutes
  • Cold shower after training
  • May blunt gains if used too often

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