Washing oneself in cold water is dangerous?!
Question: I am an American living in the Philippines, and everyone tells me that I shouldn't wash after coming home from jogging... It is belief that it's dangerous to one's health? Supposedly a woman died after washing in a local province. Since water heaters are scarce, I go from hot to cold with the water all over. Is the shift in temperature really dangerous? I used to love Polar Bearing. American in what seems to be funny land, or is it...
Answers: I am an American living in the Philippines, and everyone tells me that I shouldn't wash after coming home from jogging... It is belief that it's dangerous to one's health? Supposedly a woman died after washing in a local province. Since water heaters are scarce, I go from hot to cold with the water all over. Is the shift in temperature really dangerous? I used to love Polar Bearing. American in what seems to be funny land, or is it...
Wouldn't worry about it. If we refrained from doing all the things that someone "heard" might be dangerous, we wouldn't do anything. I live in Minnesota, and have done the Polar Bear jumps too. A sudden shock can disrupt heart function, but if one's heart is that fragile and sensitive, then that individual is probably on borrowed time to start with. I know that the Philippine culture (especially rural) gravitates towards the mysterious and unlikely hear-say type news and information - that doesn't always follow logic. No excitement in logic. Bottom line here. Don't worry about a cold shower after jogging. People do it every day around the world.
The change in temperature can cause the heart to beat irradically,and may have a heart attack.I wouldnt worry abotu it.I usually showerin hot water and then cold for 5 minutes before getting out.I havent died.
The concern with washing in cold water after working out is that your body temperature is higher after exercise and the cold water (if the temperature difference is high enough) could send your body into shock. A healthy way to shower in cold water after exercise is to do a cool down routine before jumping in to wash off. That way your body has a chance to regain a normal temp. and the cool water will still feel good. Hope this helps.