Hardening: when is it ideal to start? And why?

You've probably already noticed a huge trend that has been running regularly over the last few yearsduring the winter months. Working out is very popular nowadays, and with all the possible health benefits it offers, it's honestly no wonder at all. So in today's article we'll take a closer look at this phenomenon and, in addition to the aforementionedhealth benefits, we'll also look at how to get started with hardening.

What is hardening?

To begin with, we must stop at the concept of hardening itself. What does it actually mean? When most people think of hardening, the first thing they probably think of is a group of people with hats on bathing in a frozen pond. However, it doesn't always have to be so drastic. Generally speaking, hardening is any exposure to the cold to promote immunity and overall health. So, if you want to start hardening off, you don't have to jump into the icy water right away, but wearing one less layer in the winter is plenty sufficient. As soon as our body is exposed to the cold, a chain of physiological reactions is triggered by which the body tries to cope with this unexpected situation. Of particular note is the limited distribution of blood to the periphery of the body (arms, legs), which instead moves to the centre of the body to protect vital organs.

Health benefits of hardening

Perhaps the most well-known benefit associated with hardening is the boost to immunity. Studies show that hardening is one of the techniques (this group also includes meditation, for example) that can lead to immune system support. Another study, for example, reports that the positive effects of hardening on the body's immune response can begin to be felt within a few weeks or months. Athletes will also appreciate that post-workout hardening helps prevent muscle soreness and promotes recovery. It is therefore no wonder that professional athletes often indulge in an ice bath after training. However, hardening off can also have positive effects on the psyche. Regular bathing in cold water can help to remove symptoms of depression and at the same time act as an analgesic. It' s also worth noting that the basal metabolic rate of people who get hardened is higher on average, which has a positive impact on their ability to lose weight.

Are there any risks to weight training?

Although the health benefits of hardening are undeniable, it should also be pointed out that it can have some risks. However, these are risks associated with not following proper technique or exposing yourself to excessive cold. So if you decide to start hardening off, don't overdo it and take it in small steps. The biggest scare associated with hardening is hypothermia, in other words a significant drop in body temperature. This can happen if you stay warm for too long or if you don't warm up enough after you're done. It is also worth saying that if you suffer from a heart or similar condition whichyou may find it risky, you should consult your doctor first and do not risk unnecessary health complications.

What can hardening look like?

As I wrote in the introduction, hardening off doesn't necessarily mean swimming in a frozen pond. There are countless ways you can toughen up, and it's up to you which one you choose. The one that is probably the least strenuous is showering with cold water. The advantage of this method of hardening off is that you can adjust both the temperature of the water you use and the time you spend in the shower. Plus, it's easy to toughen up regularly, because you'll find your way to the shower every day anyway. More advanced hardeners can switch from the shower to a bath or other container of water. The effect of the cold water is much stronger when completely submerged, so this technique is not suitable for complete beginners.

However, you can also dry yourself off. Simply wear one less layer the next time you go out. But if you're just starting out with hardening, you'd better bring something warmer with you so you can dress up if necessary. For the most experienced hardy, there is also the so-called Wim Hof method. This consists of meditation and breathing exercises in addition to hardening.

How to get started?

If you do not have any experience with hardening, it is advisable to start by taking a shower in cold water. In the beginning, it is sufficient to lower the temperature of the water to which you are accustomed for the last 30 seconds of the shower. Over time, you can extend the interval during which you use the cold water and gradually lower the temperature. It is important not to overdo it right at the start, as this will only discourage you from proceeding further. At the same time, it is necessary to follow a regular regime, which will increase theyou'll increase your chances of developing a regular hardening habit.

Conclusion

Hardening offers a wide range of positive health benefits, making it extremely popular in recent times. Its main benefits are boosting the immune system and relieving muscle pain. If you want to get started with hardening, you don't have to jump into a frozen pond right away, but taking a cold shower will do the trick. The important thing is to go slowly and not overdo anything, otherwise you risk developing health problems. Therefore, follow the established procedures and increase the level of hardening gradually.

That's all from us for today, but if you have any questions, feel free to contact us in the comments below the article.