Any of these apply to you?
Heart disease, uncontrolled blood pressure, pregnancy, neuropathy, or meds that change heat/cold tolerance.
Protocol below. Skip any session if you get dizzy or already shivering.
Lab clock
2:00
Rewarm, then heat. Stop if dizzy.
- 01
Cold
2–4 minutes at 50–59°F once you can stay calm. Beginners: 60–66°F for 60–90 seconds.
- 02
Rewarm
1–2 minutes. Dry off. Do not sprint into heat while gasping.
- 03
Heat
12–20 minutes infrared or traditional. Stop if dizzy or nauseous.
- 04
Salt + water
That is the cooldown. Then go to work.
Consistency beats hero minutes. If you will not end a shower cold, a four-thousand-dollar plunge becomes a planter.