WHAT IS CONTRAST THERAPY?

Contrast therapy is a recovery method that switches between cold and hot treatments. It typically involves immersing yourself in cold water, like an ice bath, followed by exposure to heat, such as a sauna. This practice uses temperature extremes to engage the body’s circulatory and nervous systems in a unique way.

WHY CONTRAST THERAPY WORKS

Contrast therapy offers several key benefits by leveraging the body's natural responses to temperature changes. Switching between cold and hot treatments stimulates circulation, which helps deliver oxygen and nutrients more efficiently throughout the body.

Cold immersion reduces inflammation and muscle soreness by causing blood vessels to constrict, while the heat from a sauna relaxes muscles and promotes recovery through vasodilation. This combination accelerates the body’s ability to heal and recover faster.

Beyond the physical, contrast therapy also strengthens mental resilience. The controlled stress of alternating temperatures challenges both your body and mind, helping you develop focus and mental toughness

INFRARED SAUNAS: THE PINNACLE OF HEAT THERAPY

Infrared saunas differ from traditional saunas by using infrared light to heat your body directly, rather than just warming the surrounding air. This allows for deeper penetration into your muscles and tissues, helping you sweat more effectively at lower temperatures, making it a more comfortable experience.

The gentle heat from infrared saunas also promotes relaxation and muscle recovery, without the oppressive intensity of traditional saunas. Their targeted heat delivery makes them a perfect companion for contrast therapy, enhancing the benefits of the hot and cold cycle by working deeper into the body’s core.

Our new Sauna PRO uses infrared technology for a more comfortable and effective recovery, perfect for contrast therapy.

HOW TO PRACTISE CONTRAST THERAPY EFFECTIVELY

• Start with cold immersion

  Begin by immersing yourself in cold water, such as an ice bath, for 3-5 minutes. Keep the water temperature between 5-15°C, and stay fully submerged to allow your body to acclimate to the cold.

• Transition to heat

  After the cold immersion, move directly into an infrared sauna for 10-15 minutes. Ensure the temperature is set to your comfort level, typically between 50-65°C, and use this time to fully relax and let your body gradually warm up.

• Repeat the cycle

  After completing your first cycle of contrast therapy, listen to your body and analyse how you feel. For beginners, starting with just one cycle is enough but this differs from person to person.
  
  As your body becomes more accustomed to contrast therapy, gradually increasing the number of cycles to 2-3 times in a single session is recommended to fully maximise the benefits.

• Hydrate and rest afterward

  Make sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your session. Give your body time to recover afterward, allowing it to adjust to the shifts in temperature.

CONCLUSION

Contrast therapy combines cold and heat treatments to support both physical recovery and mental resilience. By alternating between these extremes, you help your body recover and adapt more effectively.

Incorporating contrast therapy into your routine can leave you feeling stronger, more focused, and ready for any challenge.

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