“You’re Likely Wasting Your Time”: Challenging Common Belief, Arnold Schwarzenegger Put Forth an Interesting Take on Cold Plunges for Weight Loss

Arnold Schwarzenegger was nearly unbeatable in his prime. After falling in love with weightlifting and bodybuilding as a teen, The Austrian Oak made fitness a part of his life. Now 75, the iconic bodybuilder is on a mission to share his wisdom with others. Worried by rising obesity rates, the seven-time Mr. Olympia is trying to help people get fit who find it hard to go to the gym. The former Mr. Universe has been sharing easy-to-follow tips and insights on exercise and diet through his daily newsletter. Arnie’s latest advice is for those looking to lose weight effectively.

The motto of Schwarzenegger’s newsletter is that it’s no-nonsense and maximizes the effectiveness of any fitness routine. Hence in the latest edition of Arnold’s Pump Club, the bodybuilding legend shared his take on the effectiveness of cold plunges for weight loss. However, he didn’t have anything significantly positive to share.

Arnold Schwarzenegger debunks a popular fitness myth

Despite having decades of experience with exercise and diet, Arnold Schwarzenegger never shares his personal opinions on fitness in his newsletter. While he may embellish the content with past experiences, the Austrian Oak always cites scientific studies to back up his claims. While writing about the effectiveness of “ice baths, cryo-chambers, or some other method,” of using cold water for weight loss, Schwarzenegger shared the results of a recent study.

Arnie revealed, “Putting your body in a deep freeze would help you melt unwanted fat by increasing brown adipose tissue (BAT).” This is why cold plunges, ice baths, and other similar methods have become popular tools to help burn more fat. However, while it sounds “great in theory… the research isn’t as exciting as the headlines,” revealed the 75-year-old.

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According to the study, “People swimming in cold water 2-3 times per week… burned just 10 extra calories.” The five-time Mr. Universe also said that these were people who spent much more time in cold water than the average person does in their tub. Hence, “you’re likely wasting your time,” taking cold plunges for enhanced weight loss, Schwarzenegger wrote in his newsletter. But the former Mr. Olympia also offered multiple alternatives.

A more effective approach to weight loss and fitness

Despite busting another popular myth, the 75-year-old didn’t discourage his readers from cold exposure. In fact, he said those who find it beneficial “should keep on doing it.” However, Arnie also suggested multiple alternatives as some “benefits of the cold are overrated.” Activities like “listening to music, lifting weights, going outside, having s*x, or just talking to a friend,” can replicate the “cold surge of dopamine.”

Activities like weightlifting or running can also be scaled in intensity, further promoting fat loss. “Remember: there are many ways to be healthier. Don’t feel forced into certain behaviors,” wrote the seven-time Mr. Olympia.

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What did you make of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s advice? Write your thoughts in the comments.