Presentation Overview

History of Cold Plunge Pools 

Cold plunge practices can be traced as far back as ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman traditions. Later, these practices continued across Scandinavian, Baltic, Finnish, and Japanese traditions. The tradition of cold plunging has held both cultural and health-related significance across many cultures.  

In the United States, from the 1800s through 1935, doctors began to use hydrotherapy, employing warm baths and cold-water plunges primarily as a means of patient control rather than to promote health. Today, many of the beliefs held around the benefits of cold plunging align more closely with the ancient practices and modern research.

Health and Safety Considerations 

Cold plunging offers many physical and mental health benefits, but it also carries significant risks, particularly for individuals with underlying health conditions. The body’s immediate response to extreme cold can be dangerous, and prolonged exposure can lead to severe medical conditions, including cold shock, hypothermia, and cardiovascular stress. Due to these risks, individuals with underlying health conditions should avoid cold water immersion entirely or consult a healthcare professional before attempting it.

Mitigation of Health and Safety Risks and Operational Considerations 

To mitigate and prevent biological contamination, facilities should have automated water systems to control pH and use chlorine disinfectants. It’s recommended that facilities also use a secondary disinfectant, such as UV, ozone, or advanced oxidation processes (AOP). 

Testing the water quality and managing water balance are key steps in monitoring contamination. It is important to note that many water quality test kits are not calibrated for colder temperatures. To ensure an accurate test result, the water should be warmed to between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Utah’s Rule 

Utah is one of the first states to establish regulations for cold plunge pools, which was published in January 2026. The rule requires cold plunge pools to meet standards similar to those for spa pools, including proper water recirculation. Facilities are also required to post signage with health warnings. This signage helps ensure that people who shouldn’t be using these pools are properly informed before they enter.