The Way of the Iceman: How the Wim Hof Method Creates Radiant Long-term Health—Using the Science and Secrets of Breath Control, Cold-Training and Commitment

by Wim Hof

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is the body’s primary energy source. When ATP is broken down, energy is released. ATP is a relatively large, heavy molecule, so it is impossible to store the body’s entire energy requirement as ATP. The body has an efficient solution to this problem in the form of different energy systems, all of which supply energy in the form of ATP in a different way. Consequently, when we need energy, we can tap into five “storage pots”, which all provide ATP in their own way: Fat Glucose (aerobic) Glycolysis (anaerobic) Creatine phosphate (CP) Free ATP The body’s energy requirement depends on the intensity of the activity. Each storage pot has a different capacity and availability. It is important to know that the different energy systems always work together, but that the relative contribution of each one varies, depending on the duration and intensity of the activity. The less intense the activity, the more low-energy fats are used as fuel. More intense efforts make use of more free ATP. The energy generated is released by the breakdown of organic compounds. This process can take place with oxygen (aerobic) or without it (anaerobic). The store of fat is—by far—the largest source of energy, even if you are not at all overweight. The body’s fat reserves are designed for light, long-lasting activity, as the energy is released slowly. But when the body requires energy quickly (ATP), the aerobic processes are too slow and glucose will be broken down without o...