Step into a chamber or onto a bed, get very cold, walk out feeling “refreshed" or "recovered".
But is it better than a simple ice bath? 👇
✅ Good evidence for pain relief and reducing inflammation.
✅ Fast, convenient — no tubs of ice at home.
🤔 But studies show it’s not clearly superior to cold water immersion.
🤔 And definitely not cheap.
How does it work?
⚡ Fight-or-flight mode → nervous system releases endorphins, noradrenaline & dopamine
🩸 Vasoconstriction → blood is redirected, enriched with oxygen & nutrients, toxins flushed
🔥 Rewarming → blood recirculates to muscles & joints, anti-inflammatory proteins released
Who’s doing it?
→ Top football clubs in Europe like Real Madrid C.F., AC Milan
→ Wellness chains / gyms in the US: Equinox with Recovery Haus (NYC)
→ Recovery studios: Octane Wellness (Paris)
From what I hear, if you can afford it: cryo is quicker, less messy, and feels futuristic.
But if you want results on a budget or easy to do at home, cold water immersion does the job too.
Would you pay premium for convenience, or stick with the old-school ice bath?
