What are common safety tips?

Before you plunge

Talk to your doctor first, especially if you have cardiovascular issues, high blood pressure, respiratory problems, or are pregnant.

Make sure the plug is at least 6ft away. To avoid electrical shock, ensure your chiller is powered at least 6 feet away from your plunge. The chiller has a 10-foot power cord for this reason.

Start slowly. Begin with shorter exposures of 30 seconds to 2 minutes, and slightly warmer water at 60 to 65°F, to let your body adapt.

Consider a partner, at least at first. Cold water shock can cause dizziness, hyperventilation, or loss of consciousness.

Avoid alcohol or drugs. These impair your body's response to cold and increase the risk of hypothermia or arrhythmia.

During the plunge

Breathe steadily. Cold shock can trigger hyperventilation, so focus on slow controlled breathing as you enter.

Enter gradually. Sudden immersion can spike blood pressure and heart rate.

Watch for red flags. Get out if you feel lightheaded, disoriented, numb in your extremities, or overly chilled. Do not wait for these to worsen.

Time it. Limit your first sessions to 1 to 2 minutes, working up to a maximum of 5 to 6 minutes once experienced.

After the plunge

Exit safely. You are wet and so is the plunge, so tread carefully. We offer decking on our Pro-Curve 3-step to help prevent slips.

Warm up safely. Use a towel, dry clothes, a warm room, and a hot drink. Avoid jumping straight into a hot shower, which can cause dizziness.

Know afterdrop. Your core temperature keeps dropping after you exit. Stay active and monitor how you feel until you are warm again.

Monitor your heart rate, and be consistent rather than reckless. Benefits come with safe progression.