So, what is it, how does it work, and why might you want to give it a try? Whether you’ve seen athletes raving about recovery or spotted wellness studios offering cryotherapy in London, let’s break it down in a simple, friendly way so you know exactly what to expect.
What Is Electric Cryotherapy?
At its core, cryotherapy means exposing your body to extremely cold temperatures for a short amount of time. The aim is to trigger physiological responses that can support recovery, reduce inflammation, and even improve mental clarity.
Electric cryotherapy uses electrically cooled air, rather than nitrogen gas, to chill the chamber. This makes the process more comfortable, consistent, and safer compared to traditional methods. Instead of being blasted with unpredictable jets of nitrogen, you step into a sleek, high-tech cabin where cooled air evenly surrounds your body.
Typical sessions last between two and four minutes, with temperatures dropping as low as -85°C. Sounds brutal, doesn’t it? But here’s the surprising part: most people describe it as invigorating rather than unbearable. Once you step out, the rush of blood flow and endorphins often leaves you feeling energised, refreshed, and ready to take on the day.
Why People Are Turning to Electric Cryotherapy
Now, you might be thinking: “Why on earth would I voluntarily stand in the cold when I already moan about British winters?” Fair point. But electric cryotherapy isn’t just about enduring a chill – it’s about reaping some impressive health and wellness benefits that many people swear by.
Here are some of the top reasons you might want to give it a go:
1. Muscle Recovery and Reduced Soreness
If you’ve ever woken up after a tough gym session feeling like you’ve aged 40 years overnight, you’ll know the pain of delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Electric cryotherapy is increasingly popular among athletes, from footballers to marathon runners, because of its ability to reduce inflammation and speed up recovery.
By constricting blood vessels and reducing tissue temperature, the body essentially goes into “protection mode.” Once you step out of the chamber, blood rushes back into the muscles, carrying oxygen and nutrients that help repair microscopic damage.
The result? Less soreness, quicker recovery times, and the ability to get back to training (or just living your life) without feeling like you can barely walk down the stairs.
2. Pain Relief for Chronic Conditions
Beyond the fitness world, electric cryotherapy has also shown promise for people living with conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and chronic back pain.
Cold exposure can dull nerve activity and reduce inflammation, which provides temporary relief from pain and stiffness. While it’s not a cure, many people find it an effective way to manage flare-ups and enjoy a better quality of life without relying solely on medication.
3. Boosted Circulation and Energy
Imagine jump-starting your body the way you’d charge your phone. That’s how many describe the post-session buzz of electric cryotherapy.
As your body responds to the cold, blood vessels constrict and then dilate, leading to improved circulation. This not only helps oxygenate muscles and tissues but can also leave you feeling more energised and alert. No wonder so many people book morning cryo sessions instead of relying on a double espresso.
4. Mental Health and Mood Benefits
Feeling low, anxious, or just mentally drained? You might be surprised at the mental uplift electric cryotherapy can bring.
Cold exposure stimulates the release of endorphins – those “feel-good” hormones that give you a natural high. At the same time, it reduces levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. The result is a calmer, more positive state of mind.
Some early studies even suggest that cryotherapy may help support people dealing with anxiety and depression, though more research is still needed. What we do know is that many regular users describe it as a mood reset button, helping them feel brighter and more resilient in the face of daily stress.
5. Skin and Beauty Benefits
If you’re into skincare, you’ll be pleased to know that electric cryotherapy isn’t just about muscles and mood. The increased circulation can give your complexion a temporary glow, while the reduction in inflammation may help calm issues like puffiness or redness.
Some wellness centres even combine cryotherapy with beauty treatments, claiming it supports collagen production and slows signs of ageing. While the jury’s still out on the long-term cosmetic benefits, there’s no denying that stepping out of a session leaves your skin looking and feeling more radiant.
6. A Safer Alternative to Nitrogen-Based Cryotherapy
One of the biggest advantages of electric cryotherapy is safety. Traditional nitrogen chambers can pose risks if not monitored properly, as oxygen displacement can occur.
Electric systems, on the other hand, use cooled air, which means you’re never exposed to harmful gases. The cabin is well-ventilated, the temperature is consistent, and you can breathe normally throughout the session. This makes it more suitable for a wider range of people, including those who may have felt uneasy about trying the nitrogen method.
What to Expect During Your First Session
If you’re considering giving electric cryotherapy a go, here’s a little walkthrough of what the experience is like:
- Getting Ready – You’ll usually change into shorts or minimal clothing, along with socks, gloves, and sometimes earmuffs or a headband to protect your extremities. Jewellery and metal accessories should be removed beforehand.
- The Session – You’ll step into the cabin, where cold air begins to circulate. A wellness professional will usually stay with you outside the chamber, talking you through the process and making sure you’re comfortable. Sessions last two to four minutes, which may feel long at first but usually passes quickly once you get used to the sensation.
- The Aftermath – When you step out, you’ll feel an instant rush of warmth as your body starts rewarming. Many people describe this as an almost euphoric feeling – a mix of relaxation and invigoration.
Most studios recommend starting with a few sessions a week, especially if you’re using electric cryotherapy for recovery or pain relief, before dropping down to a maintenance routine that works for your lifestyle.
Who Can Benefit from Electric Cryotherapy?
The beauty of electric cryotherapy is that it’s versatile. Whether you’re an athlete chasing faster recovery or an office worker dealing with back pain, electric cryotherapy can help. Even if you’re simply curious about new wellness trends, you may still benefit from giving it a try.
That said, it’s not for absolutely everyone. If you’re pregnant, have severe cardiovascular issues, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or certain medical conditions, you should speak to a doctor before booking a session. Most reputable centres will also ask you to complete a quick health questionnaire to ensure it’s safe for you.
Busting Some Common Myths
Because cryotherapy is still fairly new to the mainstream, there are a few misconceptions floating about. Let’s clear up some of the most common ones:
- “It’s unbearably painful.” – Not true. It’s intense, yes, but most people find it more of a tingling cold rather than agony. And remember, it only lasts a few minutes.
- “It’s only for athletes.” – Wrong again. While professional sportspeople love it, everyday people use electric cryotherapy for pain management, mental wellness, and even beauty.
- “It’s dangerous.” – With nitrogen-based systems, risks exist. But with electric cryotherapy, the safety standards are much higher, and the experience is generally very safe when supervised properly.
Why Electric Cryotherapy Could Be Worth Trying
At the end of the day, wellness is personal. What works wonders for one person might not make a huge difference for another. But with electric cryotherapy, the potential benefits are wide-ranging enough that it’s worth giving it a go if you’re curious. From faster muscle recovery and reduced pain, to boosted mood, energy, and even a radiant glow, the icy treatment offers a refreshing twist on self-care. And with so many tailored cryotherapy packages in London available, it’s easier than ever to find an option that suits your needs. Plus, knowing that the process is safe, clean, and well-regulated makes it an appealing choice for anyone dipping their toes into the world of cryotherapy for the first time.
Why should you try electric cryotherapy?
Because it’s more than just standing in the cold. It’s about tapping into your body’s natural responses to help you feel better, recover faster, and live with a little extra spark. Whether you’re chasing athletic gains, pain relief, mental clarity, or simply the thrill of trying something new, stepping into that chilly chamber could be exactly what you need.
The best way to find out? Book a session, step inside, and see for yourself why so many people are falling in love with the power of the cold.
FAQ
What is electric cryotherapy?
Electric cryotherapy is a treatment where your body is exposed to very cold, electrically cooled air (around –85°C) for a few minutes. It’s designed to reduce inflammation, support muscle recovery, boost mood, and improve circulation without using nitrogen gas.
How is electric cryotherapy different from traditional cryotherapy?
Traditional cryotherapy chambers often use liquid nitrogen, which can carry risks if not monitored properly. Electric cryotherapy uses cooled air instead, making it safer, more consistent, and more comfortable, as you can breathe normally during the session.
Does electric cryotherapy hurt?
Not at all. It feels very cold, of course, but most people describe it as refreshing rather than painful. The session only lasts 2–4 minutes, and many find the post-treatment rush of warmth and energy to be the best part.
How many sessions do I need to see results?
It depends on your goals. For muscle recovery or pain relief, people often start with 2–3 sessions per week, then move to weekly maintenance. Others book occasional sessions for a mental or physical boost.
Is electric cryotherapy safe?
Yes, it’s considered very safe when done in a professional studio. Unlike nitrogen-based cryo, you’re not exposed to harmful gases. That said, people who are pregnant, have severe cardiovascular issues, or certain medical conditions should consult a doctor first.
Who can benefit from electric cryotherapy?
Anyone looking for faster recovery, reduced soreness, pain relief, better energy, or even a mental reset could benefit. It’s popular with athletes, office workers with aches, and people seeking a wellness boost.
