Introduction
Our journey into exploring wellness and fitness options in the Portsmouth area community begins with a visit to Airfield Place: “The Seacoast’s Premier Facility for Fitness, Health, Recovery, and Longevity.” Conveniently situated on Rte. 1 in Rye, NH, Airfield Place offers a range of independently operated fitness and wellness options. In this article, we will delve into Rinse Recovery, one of the options at Rye Airfield that offers a memberships or daily drop-ins that grant access to Cold Plunge, Ice Bath, Red Light Therapy, and PEMF mat. My visit this week to Airfield Place was to review Rinse Recovery, a membership or daily drop-in facility that includes the use of Cold Plunge, Ice Bath, Red Light Therapy and PEMF mat. The introductory article of this series discussed the science and rage behind Cold Therapies.
So, let’s discuss my experience visiting Rinse Recovery and specifically the cold plunge.
A Welcoming Experience
When it comes to fitness and wellness facilities, an inviting and enjoyable experience is paramount, especially when you’re about to immerse yourself in cold water. General Manager Burke Bero embodies the essence of exceptional service. His energy is infectious, and his unwavering belief in the benefits of these therapies is inspiring. Burke’s personal wellness journey began after the birth of his child when he realized the importance of taking proactive steps toward his health. Witnessing loved ones suffer from health issues due to neglecting their well-being motivated him to change his lifestyle. He aspires to be an active, healthy dad and a vibrant granddad someday, and this determination led him to prioritize his health.
The Power of Cold Plunges
Burke’s daily 3-minute cold plunge routine has proven to be transformative. Scientific research suggests that spending just 11 minutes a week in water colder than 59 degrees can yield substantial benefits. Each 3-minute session helps break through weight loss plateaus and addresses inflammatory issues, common challenges for individuals on a health journey. Cold water therapies have been shown to reduce inflammation and boost metabolism by activating brown fat, making it an effective therapy for anyone seeking improved well-being. Just as professional athletes turn to ice baths for post-game recovery, these therapies address unseen inflammation that can lead to chronic health issues and metabolic challenges.
Mental Clarity and Strength
Beyond physical benefits, Burke highlights the positive impact of regular cold plunges on mental clarity and strength. Starting the day with a 3-minute plunge can provide the mental fortitude to tackle any challenges that arise. Some prefer mid-afternoon plunges to re-energize as their energy levels dip. Couples find that this shared experience builds a sense of accomplishment and connection. Rinse Recovery offers two baths, one at 48 degrees and the other between 35-36 degrees, with no definitive evidence suggesting that colder is better. However, the mental challenge of the 35-degree plunge can be particularly rewarding once you’ve mastered the 48-degree option.
Personal Experience
Our previous article discussed my experience with a daily 3-minute cold shower, which provided a dopamine rush, heightened alertness, and sustained mental clarity for hours. Transitioning to a 48-degree cold water plunge for 3 ½ minutes proved mentally easier, with the same benefits. It felt more like a community and an experience then my 3-minute daily shower, it was much more “enjoyable”. I hung on for the extra 30 seconds as I wanted to mentally push a little further and had wished I tried the bigger challenge of the 35-degree bath, after I witnessed a client confidently step into the 35-degress ice bath for minutes that he does daily. Next time it’s the 35-degree ice bath for me!
Supportive Environment
Burke goes the extra mile, if you want the encouragement or distraction, he will hang out and invite a fun engaging in conversation during your 3-minute plunge. Others play their favorite heavy metal tunes; others focus on breath work and meditation. Like many wellness and fitness programs, the key lies in making a commitment, showing up, and taking action. With only 11 minutes a week required, it’s a manageable commitment. If you seek support and companionship on your wellness journey, hang out with Burke for 3 minutes while you take the plunge.
Membership Details
Rinse Recovery offers memberships that include access to the cold-water plunge, ice bath, red-light therapies, and PEMF recovery mat therapy for just $49 a month, with a $10 trial option available. Explore the world of cold-water therapy at Rinse Recovery and discover the physical and mental benefits that await you on your path to wellness.
Stay tuned for a future article profiling local resident and owner of Rinse Recovery, Jay Jacobs, a 59-year-old sprinter champion of the Senior Games with a longevity goal of living to 136 years old.
Remember, “Health is an active pursuit, not a passive result.”
