Is Heat or Cold Better for Muscle Recovery?

Dear Thermalist Member,

As someone who pushes hard—whether it's lifting heavy, sprinting long, or tackling tough workouts—I know the ache that follows all too well. Over the years, heat and ice have become my go-to tools for recovery. But which one actually works best? And what does the latest science say?

In this post, I’ll dive into recent studies on hot baths, saunas (traditional and infrared), cold immersions, contrast therapy, and how they each affect muscle recovery. I'll walk you through when to reach for cold and when to opt for heat.