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You’ve probably seen it on social media - athletes, fitness influencers, and even everyday people sitting in tubs of ice-cold water, looking surprisingly calm. It’s hard not to wonder: why would anyone choose to do that, what’s the point and, on the end of the day, what is cold plunge pool?
In this cold plunge guide, we’ll break down exactly what a cold plunge pool is, how it works, and what the real benefits are. Whether you're curious about recovery, mental clarity, or just trying something new for your routine, this is everything you need to know before taking the plunge.
A cold plunge pool is designed for controlled cold-water immersion, meaning it allows you to safely lower your body into cold water for a short period of time. Unlike jumping into a freezing lake, the temperature is regulated — typically between 10°C and 15°C (50°F to 59°F) — which is cold enough to trigger the desired physical response without being unsafe. There are a few common types available: basic tubs that you fill with ice and water, insulated plunge barrels, and fully refrigerated plunge pools that maintain a consistent temperature on their own. At Eden Hut, we focus on high-quality outdoor plunge tubs that are built for durability, easy use, and clean design — perfect for pairing with a sauna or using on their own.
Whether you go with a simple setup or a more advanced model, the core idea is the same: brief exposure to cold for health and recovery.
Let’s take a quick step back to where it all started. Cold plunging isn’t a new trend — it’s been around for centuries. The ancient Greeks were known to alternate between hot and cold baths as part of their bathing rituals, believing it helped with circulation and recovery. In Scandinavia, cold water immersion became a natural part of life, especially when paired with sauna use — something still very common today. Fast forward to now, and you’ll see cold plunges being used by athletes, fitness professionals, and wellness enthusiasts everywhere. What began as a tradition rooted in natural health has evolved into a widely used recovery tool backed by science and adapted for modern lifestyles.
Getting the timing and temperature right is key when it comes to cold plunging. If you stay in too long or go too cold too fast, you won’t get more benefits - you’ll just stress your body and potentially harm your health. That’s why we always say: start slow and stay smart. We recommend keeping the water between 10°C and 15°C (50°F to 59°F) and beginning with short sessions — even 30 seconds to 2 minutes is enough at first. Over time, you can gradually increase your exposure as your body adjusts.
If you have any pre-existing health conditions, especially heart issues, high blood pressure, or respiratory problems, it’s important to talk to your doctor before using a cold plunge. The sudden drop in temperature can trigger a strong physical reaction, so easing in is essential. Even healthy people benefit from gradual acclimation — it gives your body time to build tolerance without overreacting to the cold.
You have a few options when it comes to choosing a cold plunge. Basic tubs or barrels are the most accessible — they usually come with a more affordable price tag and can still deliver great results. The main challenge is keeping the water consistently cold, especially in warmer climates or during frequent use. Plug-in models and high-tech tubs offer built-in temperature control, which adds convenience, but also comes with a higher cost and more complex setup. Each option has its place, depending on your goals and how often you plan to use it.
At Eden Hut, we offer a premium outdoor cold plunge tubs that hits the sweet spot between traditional design and modern durability. It’s made from weather-resistant thermowood, chosen for its natural insulation, strength, and ability to handle extreme temperature shifts without warping or cracking. This isn’t a thin plastic tub that’s built to last a season or two — it’s a serious, well-crafted piece that’s made to be used daily. It’s also designed to give you that clean, timeless look, with the feel and aesthetic of a traditional plunge experience. For those who prefer warmer water therapy, check out our hot tubs collection featuring the same quality craftsmanship with heated comfort.
Cold plunges come in a wide price range, depending on how simple or advanced you want to go. A basic tub or barrel setup can cost as little as $110–$500, especially if you’re doing it yourself with no built-in cooling system. Some are a bit more expensive if you’re looking for better materials, insulation, or longer lifespan — even without built-in tech. Add ice, and you’re good to go — but you’ll also need to stay on top of water changes and temperature control. Mid-range plug-in tubs with built-in chillers typically range from $2,000 to $6,000, offering more consistent performance and less daily effort. At the high end, fully integrated cold plunge systems with advanced filtration, digital controls, and precise temperature settings can run $10,000 to $20,000+. Don’t forget to factor in ongoing costs, like electricity (for cooling units), water use, and basic maintenance like cleaning and treating the water.
We already gave some basic pointers for beginners, but here’s what a typical cold plunge routine might look like once you get comfortable. Most people start with 1–2 minutes in the water, and gradually work up to 3–5 minutes per session. You don’t need to do it every day — 2 to 4 times a week is enough to feel the benefits. If you’re using a sauna as well, we recommend alternating between 10–15 minutes in the sauna and 1–3 minutes in the plunge, repeating that cycle up to three times. It’s a great way to boost circulation and balance your nervous system.
We’ve had a lot of positive feedback from customers who made cold plunging part of their weekly routine. Many mention better recovery, improved sleep, and just feeling sharper overall. We're proud to offer a product that people genuinely enjoy using and continue coming back to — not just because it looks good, but because it works.
We hope this article answered many of the questions you had about cold plunge pools - from how they work to what kind of setup makes sense for your needs. With all this information, you should have a better idea of whether a cold plunge is right for you. If you're looking for something warmer instead, browse our hot tubs or saunas collections for heated relaxation options. And if you’re still unsure or want help choosing the right option, feel free to reach out to us. We're always happy to help you take the next step.
Have questions about delivery, installation, or anything else related to our hot tubs and saunas? We're here to help! Fill out the form, and our dedicated team will assist you promptly. Your satisfaction is our priority. Get in touch today!
