Northbrook AC

I can certainly recommend ice baths as an aid to recovery after a long run or a particular hard session.

I'd read some time ago that Paula Radcliffe used this technique. Also, Ian Burgoyne raved about how effective they were in his preparation for the London Marathon - when he broke the club record of course.

I've being trying them out for several weeks now and, for me at least, they have made a difference. Certainly, running the day after is not as painful and, at the same time, the icy water seems to 'calm' minor niggles and strains picked up during the training session.

However, it did take a few sessions to get used to them. The first couple of times were agony and I needed the radio on at full volume in the bathroom to drown out my screams!

Has anyone tried or is intending to try this?

forced myself into a few post long run cold baths when training for 2006 FLM and can vouch for the calmed niggles and recovery lift (also took 1/2 hr off my PB on the day)

on the other side of things... after my 18 miler yesterday (freezing cold winds with long sleeves, woolen hat and gloves) the last thing on my mind was a ice cold bath!!!!?

I have tried putting my feet in a bowl of iced water when my achilles was troublesome, and that was bad enough. The thought of sitting in a bath.... NO !!
Brass monkeys and welding torch's spring to mind
Tony.

The only ice I like after a hard run is in my drink