The difference between an Ice bath and Cryotherapy

We cannot stress it enough: exposing yourself to (extreme) cold has so many advantages. Mentally and physically. It is no coincidence that more and more people seek out outdoor water or buy an ice  tub during the cold months. But did you know that seeking the cold through water is not the only way?  You can also step into a cabin at -110 degrees. But which is better for you to do? In this blog, you will read all about the difference between an Ice bath and cryotherapy.  

First of all, what is cryotherapy?

The idea of a cold bath is not so difficult. Cryotherapy, on the other hand, sounds a little more complicated. With cryotherapy, you step into an ice-cold 'cryo cabin'. You often start in a slightly less cold cabin to get used to it and then stand for a few minutes in a cabin of about -110 degrees Celsius. Liquid nitrogen is used to reach this ice-cold temperature. The air in such a cabin is dry and ice-cold. There are several places in the Netherlands where you can undergo this form of cold  therapy.

The health benefits of the different types of cold therapy

The benefits of cryotherapy are very similar to those of taking an ice-cold bath. And yet, the two forms of taking cold are also very different. What they do have in common is this:

• You give your immune system a boost;
• It improves blood circulation;
• It gives you a mental boost;
• It is good for your skin;
• It gives you energy.

The main difference between an Ice Bath and a cryo treatment

Standing in a cabin at -110 degrees or stepping into a bath at +3 degrees. You would think that the  first one would be more challenging. Jelmer Derksen from De Romei Therapy & Training was able to tell  us the following about this: "If you look at the different types of cold therapy, the effect is almost the  

same. They both have a lot of advantages. However, a dip in ice-cold water has just that little bit  more effect. This is because of the skin contact with the cold water. You lose more heat, which is  more challenging for the body. And therefore it is also a bigger mental challenge. Here we always  give the ice bath in combination with breathing and focus exercises to train the immune system."

Enjoy the benefits of cold weather at your convenience

The additional benefit of taking an ice-cold bath is that it is much more accessible than cryotherapy.  You can of course fill up your own bath with cold water or buy an Icetub that is always set to 3 degrees for you. So you can start each day in the cold and get the most out of it. There is no need to  look for a provider in your area.

Something for you too?

At Icetubs you will find the first ice bath of Dutch origin. Specially designed to push your mental limits,  start your day full of energy and benefit from a better night's sleep.

Check out our Ice baths here.