Science & Physiology

Brown Fat Activation: How Cold Exposure Burns Calories

Athlete in an outdoor ice bath with coach nearby and cryotherapy chamber in background, illustrating cold plunge recovery and cryotherapy for performance

Cold exposure triggers brown adipose tissue and whole‑body thermogenesis, helping athletes burn calories and accelerate recovery. This article examines brown fat biology, evidence for ice baths, cryotherapy and contrast therapy, and provides sport‑specific protocols, safety guidance, and monitoring tips to…

Dopamine and Cold Exposure: The Science of the 250% Increase

Athlete stepping into an outdoor cold plunge tub at dawn with a cryotherapy cabin in the background and a coach timing the session

Cold exposure—from ice baths to whole-body cryotherapy—triggers robust neurochemical and hormonal responses. Studies report dopamine spikes as high as 250% after acute cold stress, a mechanism that can enhance mood, motivation, and alertness. This article explains the science behind dopamine…