I used to grab ice every time a client was dealing with an acute injury—until I heard Gary Reinl and Kelly Starrett on @thereadystate in July 2012.
Their message hit hard: The bottom line is that after forty years of widespread use, there is no peer-reviewed indisputable evidence that icing damaged tissue improves patient outcomes.
That was my turning point and I haven’t used ice on an injury since.
Instead I adopted ARITA—Active Recovery Is The Answer.
I now use this approach with clients and in my own rehab.
My go-to method is riding the bike or rower at low intensity, but I’ve also seen great results using bands, EMS machines, and light weights.
The instinct is often to rest completely, but movement increases blood flow, reduces swelling, and speeds healing.
Next time you have a minor injury, remember: ARITA.
Over 40 and sick of setbacks?
You don’t need ice and outdated training ideas.
You need a plan based on cutting-edge research.
Strong By John is built specifically for people over 40 who want to recover faster, move better, and stay active for life.