Cold Plunge, in and around the home, is most commonly done in two different orientations. We dive into the unique differences and advantages of cold plunging in a traditional tub versus a vertical barrel. While a standard tub is often more popular, a vertical plunge might feel more intuitive and natural. Not all cold plunges are built the same.

Cold Plunge Tub | Horizontal, Lay Flat

Cold plunging in a tub involves lying down or sitting in a cold water tub. Ideally, the body is fully submerged in a horizontal position similar to when one takes a bath with only the head above water.

• Ease of Entry & Exit: Entering and exiting the water is easier as the height is roughly 30 inches or less in most cases. At some point, every person has used a bathtub so the concept is familiar. 
• Deeper Relaxation: The horizontal position can be more conducive to relaxation and meditation, potentially enhancing stress reduction benefits.
• Enhanced Metabolic Rate: Some studies suggest that horizontal immersion more effectively stimulates metabolic rate increases, aiding in weight loss and metabolism boosting.
• Longer Cooling Times:  As the surface area of the water exposed to ambient temperatures is larger with cold plunge tubs, these setups take longer time to cool and to hold colder temperatures. This should be taken into account for ice usage as well as with water chiller setups. 

Cold Plunge Barrel | Vertical, Upright

Cold water immersion in natural vertical settings like waterfalls, rivers, or lakes has been part of many traditional cultures, which might contribute to the perception of vertical plunges being more "natural" compared to modern cold plunge tubs. It often involves being on your feet or crouched in a deep pool of water. The depth of the water is such that it covers the entire body, from the neck down, allowing for an upright posture during the immersion.

• Natural Body Posture & Even Water Distribution: In a vertical cold plunge, the water surrounds your entire body, allowing for a more uniform, even exposure to cold temperatures.  Standing up is a more instinctive and comfortable position for the body in water, the setup mirrors natural environments like rivers, lakes, or oceans, where you can stand or wade rather than sit, avoiding constant contact with the surface beneath you. A cold plunge tub requires sitting, which might feel less natural or comfortable for prolonged exposure in ice cold waters.
• Movement Potential: In vertical plunges, especially in larger vertical barrels, you may have more freedom to move around. Movement can help stimulate circulation, and the experience of interacting with the water feels closer to nature than sitting still in a confined tub.
• Space Accommodating: Vertical cold plunge products have a smaller footprint as the circumference is roughly half the size of a cold plunge tub. For those with a tighter footprint, going vertical may be a better option.    
• Challenging Entry & Exit: Entering and exiting the water requires more effort as the height can easily reach over 3 feet. A step stool outside the cold plunge is often added for ease of entry and exit. Depending on a person's height, one will need to have enough strength to lift themselves out of the plunge in order to exit. This setup may be better suited for athletes with upper body strength. 
• Better Temperature Control: As the opening of a cold plunge barrel exposes less water to ambient temperatures, the water temperature tends to be more stable and easily controlled versus a cold plunge tub. This minimal exposure allows for quicker water temperature control both in regards to cooling temperature and time to cool. 

Benefits of both setups

While both methods offer significant health benefits, the choice between cold plunge tubs or barrels often depends largely on personal preference. Below are benefits of both options:

• Uniform Cooling: The even distribution of cold around the body can provide a uniform therapeutic effect, beneficial for managing chronic pain and inflammation.
• Intense Experience: Being fully submerged can intensify cold exposure, leading to a more profound physiological response.
• Full Body Immersion: Full immersion ensures an even exposure of the body to cold temperatures, potentially increasing the therapy's effectiveness.
• Enhanced Circulation: Cold plunging helps promote blood circulation throughout the body, improving cardiovascular health.
• Muscle Recovery: Cold immersion reduces muscle inflammation and soreness, particularly beneficial after intense physical activity.
• Mental Resilience: Regular practice strengthens mental fortitude, enhancing one's ability to cope with discomfort and stress.

The choice between a cold plunge tub or barrel ultimately depends on individual preference. Some prefer a more mainstream, traditional tub while others prefer a more natural, vertical barrel setup. If possible, try both before making the investment of buying a cold plunge. You will be surprised how you may prefer one over the other. Regardless of which you choose, cold plunge therapy offers a versatile and invigorating option for those looking to enhance their overall well-being.