I have been cold plunging in an ice barrel for several months. I did it for reasons other than fitness and performance. However, one of the most noticeable benefits I've experienced has been a dramatic improvement in my distance running performance on days I plunge. Cold showers would work just as well in my estimation, but I am wondering if anyone else has experienced the same regardless of cold exposure method.

For me, the outcome is less effort for my target pace, or the ability to push harder and run faster.

Anyone else use and experience similar cold water benefits?

I haven't done anything like that but have considered it for awhile. Maybe I should take the plunge (hehe...)

I remember listening to a Huberman podcast awhile back where he interviewed a researcher who specializes in thermo-regulation during exercise. He found that cooling the body resulted in drastic increases in performance because muscle fatigue is highly correlated to muscle temperature. Sounds like you are realizing some of those benefits.

The benefits you're noticing sound similar to what some elite runners have done for years. Before hot runs, some will wear ice vests to help cool their body temp. Obviously it rises once they start, but they have longer to go before their body is "over heating" by starting cooler.

Huberman is who got me onto this - the hormonal response contributes as well. Nothing like cold immersion to light up that fight or flight response.

Sounds crazy, but the benefits are similar on a cold day. You've acclimated your skin to cold - getting into the cold air in shorts and t-shirt with running gloves, is nothing at that point.

I am wanting to quantify the gains - I'll check back if I get it done.

Yeah, my guess would be that the sympathetic adrenaline surge you get probably plays the biggest role.