Does Taking a Cold Shower Have the Same Health Benefits as a Cold Plunge?

Is taking a cold shower a more accessible way to receive the health benefits of a cold plunge? Here’s what research shows.

April 21, 2025 · 1 min · 78 words · Patricia Burns

Table of Contents

Heres what the science reveals.

This is what research shows.

Cold Shower vs.

a photo of a shower head on a blue background

Photo:Adobe Stock

Cold Plunge: Are the Health Benefits the Same?

First, there are some notable benefits of taking either a cold shower or cold plunge.

Both cold showers and cold plunges can help with alertness.

And before you jump in the shower, you should consider the risks.

Talk to your health care provider for personalized advice if you think you might benefit from short-term hydrotherapy.