Over the past few years, cryotherapy has grown in popularity in commercial settings due to its positive effects on muscle repair and athletic performance.
According to W Magazine, “A study conducted by the National Institute of Sport, Expertise and Performance found that whole body cryotherapy significantly decreases pro-inflammatory cytokines, which equals decreased aches and pains and faster recovery from muscle trauma.”
As a result, some health clubs are beginning to incorporate cryotherapy as a pre- and post-workout recovery solution.
Here, Gerald Kemp, the founder of OzoHype LLC in San Diego, discusses his cryotherapy offerings and the benefits to gym members.
CS: What are the benefits of cryotherapy to exercisers?
GK: The benefits of cryotherapy for exercisers is primarily in the reduction of inflammation, pain and a positive neurohormonal response. Studies have shown that benefits can range from reducing symptoms of specific conditions such as osteoarthritis, and even mental improvements for those who are depressed or anxious. Overall, cryogenic therapy has been shown to improve the quality of life for just about anybody, not just specific to those who exercise. The unique part of cryotherapy is that it can be used before or after exercise, making it a powerful recovery tool for exercisers of all ages and athletic backgrounds.
CS: Why should health clubs consider incorporating cryotherapy into their facilities?
GK: Now more than ever, sickness, illness and disease are so prevalent. The people who are health conscious are more willing to try new approaches to take back their health or keep their health from deteriorating. They’re broadening their search for answers and deciding to explore more therapies such as cryotherapy. Best of all, they are finding success. Exercising is only one part of the equation. Nutrition is another part. So what are you doing to recover from exercise-related stress? If you are a health club or gym owner, you should be asking yourself how can you incorporate this in some way for your clients, members and community. We need to encourage more people to try this wonderful therapy.
CS: What tips or advice can you share for offering cryotherapy successfully? Any best practices for pricing, marketing and operations?
GK: To do anything successfully, including cryotherapy, you first have to believe in it. How can you believe in something you’ve never done? Take a leap of faith and try it. We believe you have one life and need to make the best of it. For us here at OzoHype, we believe in caring for our community as well as ourselves. First and foremost, it is important to focus on the wellbeing of our community. When you put your clients first, everything else falls into place.
CS: As a trend, do you think cryotherapy will continue to rise in popularity?
GK: We see cryogenic therapy becoming a routine treatment that is used more regularly and more commonly for all varieties of people, including athletes in sports and athletes in life.
CS: You use Cryo Innovations’ cryotherapy chambers. Why did you decide to partner with Cryo Innovations over other companies?
GK: Safety, innovation and location. The Cryo Innovations Recovery XR is a well-crafted machine. The look of it is also quite superb. We strongly believe they will be the leaders of the cryogenic movement going into the future.
Rachel Zabonick is editor-in-chief of Club Solutions Magazine. She can be reached at rachel@peakemedia.com.
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Rachel Zabonick-Chonko is the editor-in-chief of Club Solutions Magazine. She can be reached at rachel@peakemedia.com.
