Purpose of ice baths after competion?

Former Member
Former Member
This one is likely for the Coaches and trainers out there. I just saw a swim documentary and after the first day of multi-day meet, the swimmers took an ice bath in a tub and sat in it for several minutes. Just curious what the purpose of the ice bath is? I would think you'd want to flush out the lactic acid from your muscles and sitting in cold/ice water would restrict that from happening, or is this more for helping with muscle inflammation? Just curious. Thanks!:)
Parents
  • Was it the Missy Franklin documentary, by chance? That one convinced some kids my girls' age that they HAD to do it after prelims. More important than a nap (regardless of how little sleep they got the night before). Ugh. I'm with you. Those fluorescent tapes are the same way (medical studies say it is all placebo). They are great for really hard, intense workouts, but not for meets. Note I am not a trainer or a coach.
Reply
  • Was it the Missy Franklin documentary, by chance? That one convinced some kids my girls' age that they HAD to do it after prelims. More important than a nap (regardless of how little sleep they got the night before). Ugh. I'm with you. Those fluorescent tapes are the same way (medical studies say it is all placebo). They are great for really hard, intense workouts, but not for meets. Note I am not a trainer or a coach.
Children
No Data