27/10/2026
What the research says about sauna, ice baths and contrast, and where it's still thin.
Sauna loads your heart and circulation without impact, regular heat helps you adapt for warm races, and cold and contrast can take the edge off soreness. If you lift for size, keep the cold plunge away from your strength sessions.
Try it at REUP Cosham, 62C Havant Road. Open 5:30am–10pm, seven days a week. First visit from £8 (REUP Express, 30 min) or a £16 day pass. Book at reup-hq.com
Sources:
1. Laukkanen T et al. JAMA Internal Medicine, 2015 (2,315 Finnish men, KIHD study)
2. Laukkanen JA et al. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 2018 (sauna review)
3. Scoon GS et al. Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, 2007
4. Iguchi M et al. Journal of Athletic Training, 2012
5. Bleakley C et al. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2012
6. Bieuzen F et al. PLoS One, 2013
7. Šrámek P et al. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 2000
8. Hussain JN et al. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 2019 (Global Sauna Survey)
9. Roberts LA et al. Journal of Physiology, 2015
Not medical advice. If you have a heart condition or are pregnant, check with your GP first.