Contrast Bath Physical Therapy

Fire & Ice at Mekanix is an immersive Contrast Therapy experience that involves alternating between an ice bath and sauna for three rounds. If it’s your first class, arrive at least 10 minutes early so you have time to complete a waiver and meet your instructor.

WHAT TO WEAR AND WHAT TO BRING
You will want to wear whatever you’re comfortable ice bathing and sweating in. Most people opt to wear a bathing suit or something similar. Bring at least one towel, a dry change of clothes to drive home in, and a water bottle.

Note that hydration is extremely important both before and after Fire & Ice since your body is going to lose a lot of water in the heat. If you are coming for the first time, make sure to drink much more water than usual leading up to your class.

HOW IT FEELS
This experience is totally unique for each individual. However, you can expect to experience extreme cold in the ice bath and extreme heat in the sauna; both stimuli will require you to self-regulate and remain resilient under stress.

Whether you are experienced or a novice, the key to enjoying this experience is in the breath. Your Instructor will be there to coach you through your breathing and answer any questions you have along the way.

WHEN YOU ARRIVE:
Introduce yourself to your Instructor, sign your waiver, fill up your water bottle, and head to the back area to get started!

RINSE OFF AND BEGIN IN THE ICE!
Every ice bath round begins with a rinse off in our outdoor shower to keep both the ice bath and the sauna clean. It’s customary to take your first plunge at your natural body temperature. If it’s your first ice bath, instead of trying for a specific amount of time, just focus on controlling your breathing and relaxing your physical reactions.

THEN HEAD TO THE SAUNA!
After your ice bath, you’ll be good and ready for the sauna. We suggest spending as much time in the sauna as it takes for your body to warm up again (10-15 minutes is usually sufficient).

…The only way to find out what it’s really like is to come on in and try it!