Hot Tub Therapy Delivers Greater Health Benefits Than Saunas in New Study

A University of Oregon study compared hot-water immersion, dry heat, and infrared saunas in 20 healthy young adults and found hot tub soaking produced the largest rise in core body temperature and the most pronounced vascular benefits, though it also triggered an inflammatory response; saunas are well-studied with benefits linked to longer, more frequent sessions, but heat therapy can mimic some exercise effects and may serve as a safer alternative when regular exercise isn’t feasible, provided it’s done in moderation and with medical guidance.