Sauna vs Ice Bath — which is better? Here’s the truth nobody wants to hear: only ONE consistently improves long-term health markers… and it’s NOT the one that makes you shiver. Cold plunges spike alertness, boost norepinephrine, and build mental toughness — but they also slow muscle growth and blunt training adaptations when overused. That’s why top strength coaches avoid cold exposure post-workout. The sauna? Different league. It mimics cardio, spikes your heart rate, activates heat-shock prote