Dr. Craig Heller: Using Temperature for Performance, Brain & Body Health | Huberman Lab Podcast #40

Palmar Cooling

Palmar cooling, a technique that involves cooling the palms, has shown remarkable benefits in enhancing physical performance. Craig Heller shares a story of a professional athlete who tripled his dip repetitions by incorporating palmar cooling into his routine, highlighting its potential to significantly increase work volume and reduce fatigue 1. This method not only boosts endurance but also helps in eliminating delayed onset muscle soreness, allowing athletes to perform more reps without additional fatigue 2. Andrew Huberman notes that the conditioning effect of palmar cooling persists even when the cooling is not applied, indicating a true enhancement in performance 3.

   

Brain Cooling

Cooling the brain through the upper face can have profound effects on cognition and recovery. Craig Heller explains that cooling the non-hairy skin above the beard line can reverse blood flow, sending cooled blood to the brain, which helps reduce inflammation and protect against damage 4. This technique can trick the body into feeling cooler, potentially preventing overheating during intense activities 5. Heller also highlights that cooling the face, palms, and soles is more effective than traditional methods like applying cold packs to the armpits or groin, doubling the cooling rate 6.

   

Cooling Tech

Advancements in cooling technology are revolutionizing athletic performance. The CoolMitt, a device designed to cool the palms, is gaining attention for its ability to lower core body temperature and enhance muscle performance without causing vasoconstriction 7. Andrew Huberman8. Heller emphasizes the importance of perfecting this technology to maximize its benefits, with ongoing feedback from elite athletes and organizations 9.