Ice baths have gained popularity among athletes to aid in recovery following intense training sessions. Although they may alleviate muscle discomfort, ice baths and other forms of cold-water immersion may suppress the training-induced adaptive response important for muscle growth.   Research suggests frequent CWI decreases muscle protein synthesis after an individual exercise session, and throughout a 2-week resistance training period - with post-exercise cooling administered 3x a week (PMID: 31788800).   Twelve healthy males underwent a resistance-type exercise session followed by immersing both legs in the water. While one leg enjoyed a thermoneutral water bath (30°C), the other was subjected to cold water (8°C). Participants then consumed a beverage containing 20g PRO and 45g CHO.   Findings   Immediate Aftermath: Cold-water immersed leg showed reduced capacity to absorb and utilize dietary protein-derived amino acids for muscle growth.   Short Term (5-hour recovery): Protein sy...