From plunge pools to cold tubs, alternatives to the traditional pool are becoming more appealing, especially to younger homeowners, experts say.

A 2025 systematic review and meta-analysis of cold-water immersion, for example, examined the effects of cold-water immersion across 11 studies involving 3,177 participants.

The cold water reduces inflammation and can help alleviate post-workout soreness. Additionally, the act of getting in such cold water generates a massive post-plunge dopamine spike.

Also, those home plunge tubs are great, but you don’t need expensive equipment to cold plunge. A pool or beach with chilly water, or ice in your bath at home, will do the trick.

He explains that the hot, dry heat of a sauna and the cold temperatures of a plunge pool – often referred to as an ice bath but typically just water cooled to 10-15C – provide moderate amounts ...

Now, an 'organic cold plunge pool and wood-fired sauna' has been added to the facilities. It forms part of Fire & Ice Wellness, which will use the pool for cold water immersion therapy.

In this video, I show you exactly how I created the perfect cold plunge setup from scratch, using locally available materials, a bit of creativity, and a big love for wellness routines.