Heat Therapy: A Fun Alternative to Exercise?

When it comes to living not just long, but well, exercise is often touted as key. Yet, let’s be honest—people can be, well, a bit lazy.

“Exercise is a major non-drug treatment we recommend for promoting health, but there are those who just don’t get around to it,” remarked Jessica Attensio, a doctoral student at the University of Oregon Institute.

But here’s the good news for those who aren’t into hitting the gym: Attensio mentioned that there’s a more enjoyable activity that could act as a decent substitute for a workout.

If you happen to find yourself in a hotel with a sauna, hot tub, or one of those increasingly popular infrared saunas, you might end up spending your time there rather than working out, especially on vacation.

Research by Attensio published in the American Journal of Physiology indicates that’s actually quite beneficial.

Three forms of heat therapy—applying high temperatures to elicit physiological changes—are believed to enhance blood circulation, lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and bolster the immune system, although the research is still somewhat scant.

Interestingly, no studies seem to have compared which of these three methods is most effective for health benefits.

“We looked at the most frequently used forms of passive heating, considering both everyday use and scientific exploration,” Attensio explained. “So far, no one has really compared the immediate effects among the three options.”

To investigate this, Attensio and her team observed 20 healthy participants, analyzing the impacts of using a hot tub versus traditional saunas.

So, who came out on top? The hot tub.

“We found that soaking in hot water leads to the most significant increase in core temperature, which triggers many of these health benefits,” Attensio noted.

“Raising your body temperature boosts blood circulation, and good blood flow is vital for the health of your blood vessels.”

It might be surprising to some that the hot tub was the standout choice, but it actually makes sense when you dig a little deeper.

“When you’re sweating in open air, that’s when you see the most substantial push in core temperature—unlike when submerged in water, where sweating doesn’t cool your body as effectively,” Attensio elaborated.

To truly reap the long-term health rewards, regular use of the hot tub is crucial, much like exercising.

“If people are open to heat therapy and do it in moderation, it can surely lead to health improvements,” said Professor Christopher Minson.

As these stresses are repeated over time, data from various studies demonstrate they correlate with better health outcomes.

And it could be even more enjoyable if you invite a few friends along or spend some time meditating while you soak solo.

“It can be a very calming experience,” Minson mentioned. “Sometimes it feels spiritual, sometimes cultural, and it can even be social. I think these elements really add to the health benefits.”