The Real Science Behind Cold Exposure: What Huberman Wants You to Know
There’s a lot of hype and conflicting advice out there when it comes to cold exposure. Whether it’s plunging into ice baths or stepping into a cryotherapy chamber, the question remains: what’s really happening inside your body?
Neuroscientist Dr. Andrew Huberman recently tackled this in one of his latest deep dives, and we’re here to break it down for you — the science, the misconceptions, and why cold therapy isn’t just a trend, but a strategic tool for better health and performance.
1. Not All Cold Exposure Is Created Equal
Cold plunges. Whole-body cryo. Ice showers. They’re not interchangeable. Huberman emphasizes the importance of understanding the mechanisms behind cold exposure so you can adjust protocols depending on your goals be it fat loss, inflammation reduction, performance, or mood regulation.
At LondonCryo, we tailor your cold exposure experience to optimize exactly what you’re after — guided by real science, not guesswork.
2. Men vs Women: It’s Not One-Size-Fits-All
One of the most overlooked facts? Men and women respond differently to cold exposure. Huberman points out variations in shivering thresholds, fat distribution, and hormonal responses. That’s why personalization matters especially when you’re aiming to build resilience or regulate your mood.
3. Cold After Training: Friend or Foe?
There’s been a lot of fear-mongering about using cold after resistance training — will it kill your gains? According to Huberman, cold exposure immediately post-lifting may blunt hypertrophy, so timing is key. But outside that 4–6 hour post-training window? It can be incredibly powerful for recovery and inflammation control.
We’ll help you time your cold sessions smartly based on your fitness goals.
4. Brain Boosts & the Vagus Nerve
Here’s a nerdy detail we love: Huberman notes that cold exposure stimulates the vagus nerve, which in turn connects to the locus coeruleus (via two synapses, for those taking notes). Translation? You’re giving your brain a wake-up call, boosting focus, clarity, and stress resilience.
This is exactly why so many of our clients leave a cryo session feeling sharper and more energized.
5. The Power of Control
Understanding the why behind cold allows you to tailor it to your needs. Whether you’re here to burn fat, ease pain, bounce back from a tough workout, or simply build mental toughness — cold becomes a precision tool, not a punishment.
Ready to Reinvent Your Resilience?
At LondonCryo, our science-led approach to cryotherapy and cold immersion ensures you’re not just going cold you’re going smart.
Book your next cold exposure session now and discover what your body and brain are really capable of.
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