Life Time Expands Recovery Offerings with Cold Plunge Rollout Nationwide
Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness
As more people seek wellness programs that optimize both body and mind, Life Time is enhancing its recovery amenities with the addition of cold plunges at over 70 of its athletic country clubs across the U.S. The rollout, which is set to be completed by summer 2025, highlights a growing focus on holistic fitness solutions.
“Cold-water therapy is one of the most effective ways to recharge your body and mind,” says Danny King, Life Time's Director of Recovery and Performance. “By spending just 30 seconds in a cold plunge, you can boost your energy, improve your sleep, and build mental resilience. It's a simple yet powerful tool for recovery. By integrating this into the comprehensive offerings at Life Time, we further solidify our position as the premier holistic destination for health and wellness, providing unparalleled opportunities for our members to live healthy, happy lives.”
Cold plunges have gained traction as a recovery tool, with benefits ranging from reducing inflammation to improving sleep and mental toughness. According to a recent survey conducted by Life Time, 43% of more than 1,000 respondents expressed interest in trying or increasing their use of recovery practices like ice baths and cryotherapy in the coming year. At Life Time Scottsdale Fashion Square in Arizona, members are already embracing the new cold plunge feature. The space includes both a cold plunge and a whirlpool to support post-workout recovery. The benefits of cold plunges are also highlighted in Experience Life, Life Time's wellness publication.
Immersion in cold water stimulates the nervous system, providing a burst of energy and alertness that can help people start their day with greater focus. Additionally, cold plunges serve as a training tool for mental resilience by encouraging focused breathing during moments of physical discomfort, helping to strengthen the body's response to stress. Some individuals find that cold plunging before bed helps lower their heart rate and regulate body temperature, which contributes to deeper and more restorative sleep. Danny King emphasizes the importance of starting gradually, especially for those new to the practice. "While everyone is talking about cold plunge, it isn’t about how long you can stay in," he says. "We encourage people to talk with one of our experts to understand the proper techniques and timing. This helps to avoid potential risks and achieve the best possible outcomes for your health and wellness."
Life Time’s cold plunge expansion is part of a larger strategy to incorporate comprehensive recovery options in its athletic clubs. Alongside cold plunges, Life Time offers Rejuvenation Suites with saunas, steam rooms, and whirlpools. Many locations also feature LT Recovery spaces with services such as Dynamic Stretch programming, hydromassage beds, cryotherapy, compression boots, percussion massage guns, and foam rollers. Additionally, Life Time supports recovery through its proprietary line of LTH supplements and wellness products.
This initiative is also tied to Life Time's ongoing renovations and enhancements of its existing athletic country clubs. The rollout of cold plunges is already underway and will continue beyond 2025, bringing this recovery feature to numerous locations across the country.
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Credit: Life Time