The frequency of deliberate immersion in cold water for therapeutic or performance-related purposes constitutes a key variable in determining the intervention’s effectiveness. This variable is often expressed in terms of sessions per week or days between each instance.
The selection of an appropriate frequency is driven by factors such as individual tolerance, desired outcomes (e.g., muscle recovery, mood enhancement, or metabolic adaptation), and the intensity (temperature and duration) of the exposure. Historically, practices involving cold water have been integrated into various cultures for purported health advantages. Contemporary research seeks to quantify and refine these anecdotal observations, clarifying optimal protocols.
