Exploring the health benefits of sauna bathing
Official title: Exploring the Health Benefits of Sauna Bathing - a Pilot Study
Run by The Centre for Health · NCT06875466 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests if using a sauna followed by cold water immersion can help people aged 18 to 70 manage their blood pressure and improve heart health.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 12 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | The Centre for Health Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Tauranga) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 2025 |
| Main results expected | June 30, 2025 |
| Study ends | July 2025 |
| Registry record updated | March 19, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06875466 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 70 with blood pressure readings between 110-179 mmHg.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with severe cardiovascular conditions or acute illnesses may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of Finnish sauna bathing combined with cold water immersion on cardiovascular health, particularly focusing on blood pressure management. It aims to take a holistic approach to understand how these traditional practices can influence cardiovascular disease risk factors. Participants aged 18 to 70 with specific blood pressure ranges will be included, and the study will assess both physiological and social aspects of sauna use. The research seeks to fill a gap in current knowledge regarding the combined effects of these therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a non-pharmacological approach to managing hypertension and reducing cardiovascular disease risk.
How similar studies have gone: While sauna bathing has been studied for its health benefits, the combined effects with cold water immersion are less explored, making this approach relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * SBP: 110-179 mmHg; DBP 60-99 mmHg) * 18 - 70 y old. * Participants who are prescribed anti-hypertensive or dyslipidaemia medications will be included but must be on a stable dose for at least 30 days. Exclusion Criteria: * stable or unstable angina * recent myocardial infarction (\<3 months) * orthostatic hypotension * severe aortic stenosis * pregnancy * acute infectious diseases * rheumatoid arthritis in the acute inflammatory phase * fever for any reason * any other medical condition deemed a risk.
Where it's running
-
The Centre for Health
Tauranga, New Zealand Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Anna Rolleston, PhD — The Centre for Health
- Study coordinator: Tasha Burton, MSc
- Email: tasha@thecentreforhealth.co.nz
- Phone: 0220180557
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.