Heat therapy is one modality that’s proven to help for performance, recovery, and more.

Discover the benefits of heat therapy for athletes.

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But you might actually benefit more from a differentverydifferentrecovery method, one that packs a three-for-one punch.

woman sweating in the gym

head of the Sports Performance Center at the University of Florida and UF Health

Cold water immersion waslesseffective in restoring explosive strength and managing soreness.

Both of those adaptations could help you recover faster.

When youre sore, you have lower force production, says Dr. Vincent.

Woman walking on a treadmill at the gym.

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Full body female athlete in sportswear using rowing machine during fitness workout in gym.

You dont even need water.

Heat acclimation in a warming world

Another benefit of heat therapy?

It can be especially useful in preparing for more extreme conditions.

Happy woman dancing and listening to music near a green empty wall outdoor in the city.

head of the Sports Performance Center at the University of Florida and UF Health

It should not be underestimated how much heat training helps, says Dr. Vincent.

The 2020 sauna study also declared post-exercise sauna bathing to be an alternative to active heat acclimation.

You dont want to use it after a high-intensity workout, when your core temperature is already significantly elevated.

Healthy female training in the gym, performing a hip thrust.

Instead, save it for immediately after moderate-intensity workoutswhen youre warm, but not overheated, says Dr. Zuhl.

Three times a week is enough to bring out those positive adaptations.

Next time youre looking to boost your recovery, dont look any further than your own bathroom.

A young black woman doing post-run stretches in the park on the road amidst green grass and trees.

Sautillet, Benoit, et al.

Steward, Charles J et al.

34,3 (2024): e14600.

doi:10.1111/sms.14600

Kirby, Nathalie V et al.

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