Thinking about a cold plunge in Michigan? We have some tips

• Cold plunges are more popular than ever in Michigan 
• Adherents swear by them, saying they make you feel great
• Before you go, be safe. Here are tips

Maybe you’ve seen it on social media, or out in the wild: people bathing in icy lakes and rivers. 

Cold therapy is nothing new. The ancient Greeks apparently did it and cold plunges are a part of Scandinavian sauna culture, thought to date back thousands of years.

But in the last couple years, cold plunging has evolved into a way of life for many, bolstered by the rush of jumping in frigid lakes, camaraderie and perceived (but inconclusive) health benefits.

Related: Michigan winter: No better time to jump in lakes? Why cold plunges are so hot

While science about those claims is limited at best, it’s clear that cold plunging can be a mood booster, can provide a sense of achievement and help break the monotony of winter. But that’s not to say the practice doesn’t come with risks.

“Cold water, with time, will kill you,” said François Haman, a researcher and professor at the University of Ottawa who has studied how the human body responds to extreme environments, like cold, for more than two decades. 

Cold plunges can lead to hypothermia, heart attacks and can harm those with circulation issues. There’s also the potential for nerve and tissue damage. Older adults should be extremely careful and children should avoid cold plunges altogether, Haman said.

For people still interested in taking the plunge, here’s some advice from Science2Perform — a group Haman belongs to — as well as some seasoned plungers. 

Talk to your doctor

Everybody is different and will respond to freezing cold water differently. If you’re interested in doing it, talk to your doctor first to assess how risky the practice might be for you.

Don’t go alone

Bring a buddy or go with a whole group, but don’t go alone. If something does end up happening, you’ll want someone there to help you.

Keep your extremities warm

Wear something like a neoprene booty to keep your feet a little warmer. Keep your hands above water and possibly wear gloves. Stick to somewhere where you can touch the ground and keep your head above water and consider wearing a warm hat.

Bring something to lay your stuff on

This may seem small but if you bring a garbage bag or IKEA bag to lay your dry clothes and towel on, you’ll thank yourself when you get out.

Don’t let the ice touch your skin

Floating ice can be really uncomfortable. Researchers recommend avoiding direct contact with ice to prevent frostbite.

Don’t stay in longer than 10 minutes

Haman said three minutes is enough but researchers say seasoned cold plungers may be able to safely stay in for up to 10 minutes.

Immediately get into dry clothes

After getting out, immediately change into dry clothes and remove your wet suit as soon as possible.