What is Contrast Therapy?
Contrast therapy is a recovery technique that involves alternating between hot and cold exposure, typically using a sauna and a cold plunge. This method is used to enhance circulation, reduce muscle soreness, and promote overall wellness.
Sauna
Sauna (Heat Exposure) – Users sit in an infrared sauna heated to 140–150°F for 10–20 minutes. The heat promotes relaxation, sweating, and increased blood flow.
Benefits include:
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Improve circulation
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Improve muscle recovery
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Detoxification
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Reduce risk of cardiovascular disease
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Stress relief
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Enhance mood
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Better metabolic health
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Gain longevity
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Manage pain
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Improve skin health
Cold Plunge
Cold Plunge (Cold Immersion) – Immediately after the sauna, users immerse themselves in a cold plunge tub cooled to 50–59°F for 1–5 minutes. This shocks the system, reduces inflammation, and aids in recovery.
Benefits include:
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Boost metabolism
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Reduce inflammation
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Enhance muscle recovery
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Support immune function
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Increase mood
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Increase focus
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Increase stress resilience
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Enhance mental toughness
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Enhance cardiovascular health
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Improve insulin sensitivity
FAQs
What should I expect in my first session? ​You will have 30 minutes in the contrast therapy suite. Our staff will go over the rules and best practices for using the suite.
What do I bring for my session? Bring a bathing suit, change of clothes, something to drink.
Do you provide towels? Yes! We provide 2 body towels to use during your session. But, you are more than welcome to bring your own.
How long is each session? Each session is 30 minutes long.
What order should I use the sauna and cold plunge in? You start in the sauna for 10- 20 minutes. Then dry off and transfer into the cold plunge for 1- 5 minutes.
​What type of sauna do you have? We use an infrared sauna.
What should I wear while in the sauna and cold plunge?​ We advise wearing a swimsuit or spandex during your session. We provide a towel for you to use in the sauna.
How often is the sauna and cold plunge cleaned? Sauna is cleaned using a multi- purpose cleaner after every session.​ The cold plunge filters the water regularly to keep the water chemically balanced. The tub is emptied and refilled weekly. High contact areas (floors, bench, etc.) are cleaned after every session and deep cleaned weekly.
What should I do if I'm running late? ​Not a problem! Just call the office and let us know you will still be arriving at your appointment. Please note that your appointment has a specified start and end time to allow our staff to properly sanitize the room before the next appointment so you will lose time on your session if you arrive late.
Can I use the contrast therapy with a fever? It is best to rest, hydrate and wait for the fever to subside before using the sauna or cold plunge.
Can I use the sauna and cold plunge when pregnant? It is recommended to avoid sauna and cold plunge when pregnant.