Cryosauna Vs. Cryo Chamber: Key Differences Explained
Key Takeaways:
Cryosaunas Enclose the Body Below the Neck: They use liquid nitrogen for very cold, targeted muscle recovery, with the head remaining outside.
Cryo Chambers Enclose the Entire Body: These use electrically cooled air for a full-body experience, including the head, at slightly warmer temperatures.
Cryosaunas Offer More Intense, Localized Cooling: They are often preferred for rapid muscle recovery and performance enhancement.
Cryo Chambers Provide Even, Full-Body Exposure: This can offer broader benefits, including potential neurological effects and group sessions.
Both Methods Can Be Enhanced with Contrast Therapy: Alternating cold exposure with heat can further boost circulation and recovery regardless of the cryotherapy method used.
As cryotherapy continues to gain popularity for its recovery, performance, and wellness benefits, many people wonder about the difference between cryosaunas and cryo chambers. While both methods use extreme cold exposure to promote the benefits of cryotherapy, they differ in design, effectiveness, and user experience.
But what does cryotherapy do, and which option is better for you, a cryosauna or a cryo chamber? This guide breaks down the key differences, how each method impacts whole-body cryotherapy, and how they compare when paired with contrast therapy.
Cryotherapy: How It Works
Cryotherapy exposes the body to extreme cold for a short duration, triggering biological responses that promote recovery, circulation, and pain relief. Both cryosaunas and cryo chambers work by rapidly reducing skin temperature, which causes:
Vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) to reduce inflammation and swelling.
Increased blood circulation after treatment, delivering oxygen and nutrients to muscles.
Endorphin release, which helps reduce pain, improve mood, and enhance mental clarity.
Both cryotherapy methods provide a wide range of benefits, but the way they deliver cold exposure is what sets them apart.
What is a Cryosauna?
A cryosauna is a single-person, upright chamber that exposes the body to liquid nitrogen-cooled air, with the head remaining outside the unit.
How a Cryosauna Works
The individual stands inside the chamber, while supercooled nitrogen gas circulates around the entire body below the neck.
Temperatures range from -200°F to -300°F, with sessions lasting 2 minutes to 3 minutes.
Because the head remains outside, users breathe normal air, reducing the chance of discomfort from cold air inhalation.
Key Features of a Cryosauna
Single-user experience: Ideal for personalized cryotherapy sessions.
More exposure to dry cold: Effective for muscle recovery and performance enhancement.
Lower oxygen reduction risk: The user’s head remains outside the nitrogen-cooled environment, ensuring normal breathing.
Cryosaunas are popular for those who want targeted muscle recovery without full-body immersion in a chamber.
What is a Cryo Chamber?
A cryo chamber is an enclosed room where individuals or small groups are exposed to electrically cooled air rather than nitrogen-based cooling. This method provides whole-body cryotherapy, including the head and neck.
How a Cryo Chamber Works
Users step into a fully enclosed, temperature-controlled chamber, where cold air (not nitrogen gas) rapidly cools the entire space.
Temperatures range from -150°F to -250°F, slightly warmer than cryosaunas but with more uniform cooling.
The entire body, including the head, is exposed, offering a more immersive cryotherapy experience.
Key Features of a Cryo Chamber
Even full-body cooling: Unlike cryosaunas, the head is included, which may provide enhanced neurological benefits.
Electrically cooled air: A safer alternative for those sensitive to nitrogen exposure.
Group therapy options: Some cryo chambers allow for multiple users at once, making it great for sports teams and recovery centers.
Cryo chambers are ideal for those looking for a fully immersive cryotherapy experience, including head, neck, and whole-body benefits.
Key Differences Between a Cryosauna and a Cryo Chamber
Both whole-body cryotherapy options provide a cold therapy experience, but they differ in temperature, exposure, and session type.
Cryosauna Vs. Cryo Chamber: What’s the Difference?
Feature
Cryosauna
Cryo Chamber
Cooling Method
Liquid nitrogen
Electrically cooled air
Temperature Range
-200°F to -300°F
-150°F to -250°F
Head Exposure
Head remains
outside
Head is
fully exposed
Oxygen Levels
Normal oxygen levels
Air may feel slightly thinner
Best For
Localized
muscle recovery
& pain relief
Full-body recovery
, including brain stimulation
Group Use
Single-user
Can accommodate multiple users
If you’re looking for targeted recovery with rapid cooling, a cryosauna is a great option. However, if you want a full-body, head-to-toe experience, a cryo chamber might be the better choice.
Which Cryotherapy Method is Better for Athletes?
For athletes, choosing between a cryosauna and a cryo chamber depends on their training goals, recovery needs, and sensitivity to cold exposure.
Best Cryotherapy Option for Athletes Based on Their Needs
For Quick Muscle Recovery: Cryosaunas provide targeted cooling, reducing inflammation and soreness in specific muscle groups.
For Full-Body Regeneration: Cryo chambers offer a more immersive experience, helping with overall fatigue and injury prevention.
For High-Intensity Training: Athletes may benefit from combining cryotherapy with contrast therapy for enhanced circulation and muscle relaxation.
Since cryotherapy benefits include faster post-workout recovery, reduced inflammation, and mental clarity, both methods are highly effective for active individuals.
Can You Combine Cryotherapy with Contrast Therapy?
For those looking to enhance the benefits of cryotherapy, integrating contrast therapy, which alternates between cold and heat treatments, is a powerful way to boost circulation, recovery, and overall performance.
Why Contrast Therapy Works Well with Cryotherapy
Maximizes Blood Flow: Switching between cold (vasoconstriction) and heat (vasodilation) increases oxygen and nutrient delivery.
Speeds Up Recovery: Helps reduce soreness more effectively than cryotherapy alone.
Enhances Metabolism & Detoxification: Promotes better lymphatic drainage, eliminating toxins faster.
For athletes and individuals using whole-body cryotherapy, combining cold exposure with sauna sessions, infrared heat, or hydrotherapy offers complementary recovery benefits.
The Right Cryotherapy Treatment for Your Needs
Both cryosaunas and cryotherapy chambers provide powerful cold therapy benefits, but they differ in temperature levels, exposure, and user experience. Whether you’re looking for targeted muscle relief or full-body recovery, understanding these differences helps you select the best option for your wellness routine.
For those focused on post-exercise recovery, elite athletes and professional athletes often rely on whole-body cryotherapy to improve blood flow, reduce muscle pain, and accelerate healing. The effects of cryotherapy extend beyond just recovery, cold temperatures help combat inflammatory conditions, making cryotherapy an essential tool for those managing chronic pain or injuries.
Additionally, pairing cryotherapy with contrast therapy can further enhance circulation, detoxification, and flexibility, offering a comprehensive approach to recovery and performance optimization.
If you’re unsure which method suits your goals, consulting with a cryotherapy provider can help determine the best approach based on your fitness level, injury history, and overall health needs.
Experience the Best of Cryotherapy at PauseStudio!
Not sure whether a cryosauna or cryo chamber is right for you? At PauseStudio, we offer customized cryotherapy treatments to help you recover faster, reduce inflammation, and optimize performance.
Book your session today and discover the power of cryotherapy for yourself!