Cold water immersion did not accelerate recovery after a futsal match

INTRODUCTION:

cold-water immersion (CWI) is a popular recovery strategy; however, there is limited evidence of the effectiveness of this method in sport settings.

OBJECTIVE:

to investigate the effect of CWI on muscle soreness and anaerobic performance after a Futsal match.

METHODS:

ten players performed two simulated matches followed by two randomized recovery conditions (CWI or passive rest - C), separated for seven days. During the recovery interventions, the players remained seated in a comfortable position (C) or were immersed in a pool with cold water (CWI condition; 15±1ºC) for 12 minutes. Muscle soreness assessment, counter movement jump (CMJ) test, repeated jump ability (RJA) test, and repeated sprint running test (rRST) were conducted prior to the match (Pre), immediately after the recovery intervention (P1) and 24h after the recovery intervention (P2).

RESULTS:

a significant increase in muscle soreness after the Futsal match was observed for both interventions (C and CWI) during all time points (P1 and P2, p<0.05); however, no significant difference was detected between CWI and C interventions (p>0.05). There was a significant decrease in anaerobic performance (CMJ, RJA and rRST) immediately after the CWI intervention when compared to C (P1, p<0.05). No significant difference in anaerobic performance was detected between the two conditions at P2 (CWI and C; p>0.05).

CONCLUSION:

the CWI did not improve recovery related to muscle soreness and anaerobic performance of Futsal players.

fatigue; muscle soreness; vertical jump; repeated sprint ability