Impact of systemic cryotherapy on physical fitness

Abstract

Background: Systemic cryotherapy has broad effects on the human body. These include improved immunity, accelerated tissue regeneration, activation of thermoregulatory mechanisms, analgesic effects, and reduced muscle tension and spasticity without compromising strength. Aim: To evaluate the effect of systemic cryotherapy on physical fitness. Material and methods: The 43 participants (42 - 53 years of age) underwent 10 daily treatments in a nitrogen cryochamber over two consecutive weeks. Each cryochamber treatment lasted for 3 minutes at -130°C. Physical fitness was tested before and after the cryochamber treatment course using elements of three physical testing methods (a functional movement screen, a TKKF physical fitness test and a general fitness test). Results: After cryotherapy, there was a visible improvement in the first four exercises of the fitness test with fewer participants feeling pain during movement, and more able to perform the exercises correctly or perfectly. For the remaining three exercises, the changes occurred in fewer subjects and to a lesser extent. Conclusion: Systemic cryotherapy was associated with improved physical fitness. It can be used to help increase overall physical fitness as a complementary and supportive process.