If you're planning on taking a polar bear plunge, Tipton says you can prime your body for the event several days before by gradually lowering the temperature of your shower.

CNN: Are polar bear plunges good for you?

If you've been in cold water for up to 30 minutes, Tipton recommends soaking for 10 to 15 minutes in a hot bath -- but no more than that.

CNN: Are polar bear plunges good for you?

The more you immerse yourself in cold water, the more your body will adapt to the extreme temperature change, according to Tipton, who started off 2013 by donning Bermuda shorts and participating in a polar bear plunge in his hometown of Gosport, England.

CNN: Are polar bear plunges good for you?