For decades we have understood the application of ice to musculoskeletal injury was indicated for treatment. Primarily for the reduction of cellular metabolism to perhaps slow secondary cell death. What is the most up-to-date science on the application of ice to both acute and chronic inflammation?
My main form of fitness is long-distance cycling, and here in Canada, I only get out about 7-8 months of the year. In the off-season, my VO2 Max will decrease by about 15-20%, and I will spend a month or more in the spring getting it back to where I was before improving upon it. I'm not a fan of public gyms, but I maintain other forms of fitness in the winter months, such as walks, calisthenics and the periodic run. Are there any habits outside of daily exercise and adequate sleep that will aid in maintaining VO2 Max?
I like to fall asleep with a noise machine playing white noise, but I've been wondering how this could impact my sleep. Is utter silence more beneficial than constant sounds like white noise? Could wind/water/rain (or other natural sounds) have a more positive impact on sleep quality than artificial white noise or fan sounds? Also, you are the best person.