13 Cold Therapy Essentials: Ice Baths, Cryo Spas, Safety, and Science
5. Dry Cryotherapy / Zerobody Systems
Dry cryotherapy systems like Zerobody offer a newer, clothed experience where cold is applied without immersion or direct wet contact. These systems often provide a more comfortable and convenient entry into cold exposure because users remain dry and may feel less intense shock than a water plunge. Manufacturers and some spas promote these options for relaxation, reduced soreness, and convenience — people can fit short sessions into a schedule without the cleanup of ice and water. The technology is still evolving, and independent studies comparing dry systems to traditional cold exposure are limited. As with whole-body chambers, the sensation can be immediate and subjectively refreshing, but robust evidence for long-term benefits is not yet established. From a safety perspective, dry systems reduce some logistical risks but still require trained staff and screening, especially for people with cardiovascular concerns. If you value ease and comfort, a dry system might be attractive; if you prioritize traditional physiological responses tied to wet cold exposure, the effects could differ. Either way, look for reputable operators and clear session protocols before trying a dry cryotherapy option.
6. What the Science Actually Shows
When you look at the research on cold therapy, the picture is nuanced. Multiple studies show that short cold exposure can reduce perceived soreness and blunt immediate inflammatory responses after exercise. That physiological effect — reduced blood flow to cooled tissues and a temporary calming of inflammation — explains why many athletes feel better after a plunge. But broader claims about long-term performance improvement or sweeping health benefits are not consistently supported. Medical experts and reviewers describe the evidence as mixed and emphasize that much of the research uses small samples, varied protocols, or short follow-ups. Some benefits may be partly explained by placebo effects or by simply interrupting a painful cycle. Importantly, the depth of evidence differs by method: localized cooling has predictable uses in acute injury care, while claims about whole-body recovery or mood changes need larger, controlled trials to be definitive. The practical takeaway is measured optimism: cold exposure can help in certain contexts, especially for temporary soreness and swelling, but it isn’t a universal cure. Stay curious and rely on transparent providers and credible studies when weighing specific claims.
