From NBA standouts to tennis aces and the Iceman himself, top athletes rely on cold plunge therapy to push performance, speed recovery, and sharpen mental edge. Leverage daily cold plunges like Tom Brady and Simone Biles to feel unstoppable. 

You don’t have to be a professional athlete to benefit from the power of cold plunge therapy. High-performers in business, creative fields, and wellness-focused lifestyles are turning to cold immersion to boost focus, build resilience, and support whole-body recovery. Just like elite athletes, they’re using cold plunges to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and physically and mentally reset. Whether you’re managing long hours at work, engaging in intense workouts, or simply seeking a natural way to elevate your energy and mood, cold therapy offers a clear edge. It’s not just about muscle recovery, it’s about sharpening your mind, calming your nervous system, and showing up as your best self.

LeBron James – NBA (LA Lakers)

How he uses cold therapy: LeBron regularly incorporates ice baths and contrast therapy post-game and post-training.  At 39, his recovery routine includes stretching, cryotherapy, and cold plunge to keep his body at peak performance.

“Being consistent with recovery is key. I live in the ice tub. You have to treat your body like a machine; you only get one.”

 

Simone Biles – Gymnastics USA Olympic Team

How she uses cold therapy: Simone has been vocal about the intense strain gymnastics puts on her body. She uses cold plunge, massage, and cupping therapy to maintain joint health and reduce inflammation.

“Recovery is just as important as training. Cold plunges aren’t fun, but they work.”

Tom Brady – NFL (Retired)

How he uses cold therapy: Tom Brady famously used contrast therapy (hot/cold) as part of his TB12 method. His regimen helped extend his career well into his 40s.

“It’s not about pounding your body into submission. It’s about sustaining peak performance. Ice baths have been part of that for me for years.”

Naomi Osaka – Tennis Japan Olympic Team

How she uses cold therapy: Naomi uses cold plunge therapy and cryotherapy to recover from matches and long travel. She says cold immersion helps with mental reset as much as muscle recovery.

“The cold helps me clear my mind and reset. It’s like starting fresh, body and brain.”

Cam Spencer – NBA (Memphis Grizzlies, ex‑UConn)

How he uses it: Daily cold plunges as part of both his physical recovery and mental reset after games and workouts.

 “I’ve always loved cold plunges. They’ve had an impact on my recovery. But I think for people in their everyday routines, it can help them as well, their physical and mental health.” 

Noah Syndergaard – MLB Pitcher (“Thor”)

How he uses it: Starts his morning with a freezing cold plunge (around 35°F) beside his garage sauna, sometimes doubles up with a second plunge later in the day, or alternates with sauna sessions. Says cold immersion gives him “a boost of energy,” helps with recovery, and mentally resets him.

“I start my day off every morning with a cold plunge.  It’s chilly, but it gives me so much life.” 

Wim Hof – Extreme Endurance Athlete (“Iceman”)

How he uses it: Routine cold-water immersion paired with controlled breathing and meditation, known as the Wim Hof Method. He helped spark the current cold plunge trend. It builds mental resilience, stress tolerance, improved circulation, and profound self-awareness.

“The cold is my teacher. It shows you what you’re really capable of.” 

The message is clear: cold plunge isn’t just another wellness fad; it’s a proven tool for recovery, resilience, and performance. Whether you’re training for your next big event or simply want to feel sharper, calmer, and more energized, cold therapy can help you get there. At Elixir, we’ve combined the benefits of cold plunge with other wellness services, including infrared sauna, cupping, and massage, to offer a full-spectrum recovery experience tailored to your goals. Ready to feel the difference for yourself? Click here to book your Cold Plunge appointment at our special introductory rate and learn more about how this powerful therapy can upgrade your wellness routine.

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