Cryotherapy has emerged as a prominent trend in the fitness and wellness industries, offering countless recovery benefits for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. It is thought that extreme cold can improve mental and physical health and even prolong life. So, what does the science say?
This innovative treatment involves exposing the body to extreme cold temperatures for a short duration through various methods and applications, which has already been used in the medical field for the treatment of warts and precancerous and cancerous cells. Though the general consensus is that the practice of cryotherapy is generally safe, with minimal risks, understanding current trends helps professionals provide informed guidance to clients, optimizing performance and recovery.
Whole-Body Cryotherapy (WBC)
Whole-body cryotherapy involves brief exposure to sub-zero temperatures using cryotherapy chambers. This trend continues to grow as fitness enthusiasts seek its potential benefits, such as reduced muscle soreness, accelerated recovery and increased metabolism. Studies, such as this one, have shown that cryotherapy can help with temporary reduction in pain caused by autoimmune arthritis. Due to the reduction of the inflammatory process linked with oxidative stress, some studies even postulate that whole body cryotherapy has significant potential at reducing risks of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Localized Cryotherapy
Localized cryotherapy targets specific areas of the body using a cryotherapy wand or device. Various communities are utilizing this trend to provide targeted pain relief, reduce inflammation and assist in injury rehabilitation.
Cryotherapy Facials
Cryotherapy facials have gained popularity for their potential benefits in improving skin health, reducing inflammation and promoting collagen production. Estheticians to offer these rejuvenating treatments as part of a holistic wellness approach.
Related: The Wellness Benefits of Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy for Performance Enhancement
Athletes and fitness enthusiasts are turning to cryotherapy to enhance performance by stimulating blood circulation, improving oxygenation and decreasing fatigue. Fitness pros can incorporate cryotherapy sessions strategically into training programs to help clients optimize their performance. In some studies, cryotherapy has even been shown to reduce inflammation by reducing key cells responsible for inflammatory processes.
Cryotherapy for Mental Wellness
Wellness is not just about physical strength; it's about achieving harmony between your mind and body. Recent studies have revealed that cryotherapy can positively impact mental well-being, elevating mood, sharpening focus and reducing stress levels. One study found that cryotherapy reduced the symptoms associated with depression and anxiety by 50%.
Cryotherapy for General Health
Staying informed about current cryotherapy trends is crucial for specialists of all types seeking to provide their clients with the best recovery and performance-enhancing strategies. Whole Body Cryotherapy, targeted cryotherapy, combination therapies, and mental wellness applications are among the prevailing trends in cryotherapy today. By integrating these trends into their practice, we can offer comprehensive solutions to our clients, improving their overall wellness journey, improve conditions in which inflammation is heavily involved, and even help prevent, or significantly reduce the risks of developing chronic diseases. It is important to consult with experts, consider individual needs, and adhere to safety guidelines when implementing cryotherapy or any new modality.
Sara Kooperman, CEO of SCW Fitness Education, WATERinMOTION and S.E.A.T. Fitness, is a visionary leader that has transformed the fitness education community. Kooperman has launched seven successful live MANIA fitness professional conventions, another six streaming conferences, and more than 40 live and online certifications. Kooperman currently serves on IHRSA’s Headlight Committees for Facility Standards, is a co-host of IHRSA’s Talks & Takes Monthly Talk Show and sits on the ACSM Communication & Public Information Committee. She also is part of the Gold’s Gym Think Tank and the canfitpro Advisory Panel and was a founding board member for the Women In Fitness Association (WIFA).
