Cooling Down to Level Up: Does Interset Palm or Sole Cooling Enhance Resistance Training Performance?

• Published in: Strength and conditioning journal 2024-12, Vol.46 (6), p.714-724
• Main Authors: Burke, Ryan, McMahon, Gerard, Schoenfeld, Brad J.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Cooling; Literature reviews; Nervous system; Strength training
• ISSN: 1524-1602; 1533-4295
• DOI: 10.1519/SSC.0000000000000855

An emerging body of research has explored the potential ergogenic effects of noninvasive interset recovery strategies involving the application of cold substances to the extremities distal to exercising muscles (e.g., palms of the hands or the soles of the feet). It was suggested that such strategies may acutely enhance resistance training (RT) performance by augmenting excitation and motor unit recruitment of the working muscles through enhanced stimulation of the central nervous system, resulting in greater force production and the ability to perform more repetitions to fatigue. Moreover, peripheral stimuli such as distal cooling may acutely reduce the sensation of distress during RT, allowing individuals to tolerate more exercise and achieve higher training volumes. Although there is some evidence that interset distal cooling confers an ergogenic benefit during RT, certain methodological considerations, a paucity of longitudinal research, and contrasting findings call into question its effectiveness. Thus, the purpose of this review is to assess the current evidence regarding the effects of interset palm and sole cooling on RT performance outcomes.