Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive on our products. If you have a question that Is not answered here, please feel free to send us an email and we will get back to you.
Cold Plunging Questions
Cold therapy involves immersing the body in cold or ice water to promote health benefits and treat various conditions.
The concept is that cold water eases pain by causing blood vessels to constrict, which reduces blood flow to the affected area. This is why ice helps to decrease swelling and inflammation. Common forms of cold therapy include ice baths, cold showers, cold water immersion, cold pools, and cryo-chambers.
At SISU Wellness, we focus on ice baths because research suggest they offer superior benefits.
The timing of cold therapy depends on your performance goals. If you're aiming to improve endurance, it's beneficial to cool down before, during, or after your workout. However, if your goal is to build strength, it's ideal to wait at least 4 hours after training to allow your body to fully respond to the stimulus. For general physical and mental health benefits, soaking in an ice bath post-training is recommended.Studies have shown that spending as little as 11 minutes per week in an ice bath, spread over 2-3 sessions, can significantly boost your metabolism.
There is some debate, but leading experts recommend an ice bath temperature between 8-15°C (46.4-59°F) for durations ranging from 2 to 20 minutes. It's best to start with a higher temperature and shorter time, gradually adjusting these variables to challenge yourself as you become more accustomed to using ice baths for recovery or resilience training. Advanced users sometimes go as low as 3°C (37.4°F), which is why our ice baths are designed to chill to that temperature.
While cold showers are a great introduction to cold therapy, ice baths are the most effective way to unlock their full benefits. Ice baths create a more powerful experience by activating all your skin’s receptors simultaneously. This intensity triggers a "protection response" from your body, releasing feel-good hormones and lowering cortisol levels. Additionally, the hydrostatic pressure of the water helps your body conduct heat transfer more efficiently than a shower or cryo-chamber, due to the water's density.
This is a highly personal question, as the ideal duration for cold therapy varies from person to person. Depending on the temperature and how long you’ve been incorporating cold therapy into your routine, it can range from 2 to 20 minutes. The experience should be challenging enough to make you want to get out, yet safe enough to endure. You can start with a higher temperature (e.g., 8°C) and gradually increase the duration as you build resilience. Once you've mastered that temperature, you can lower it as you see fit.
Ice baths offer a wide range of physical and mental health benefits for anyone looking to feel and perform at their best. Many use ice baths for resilience training, which helps them manage stressful situations in their daily lives in a controlled manner. High performers incorporate ice baths into their daily routines to stimulate both body and mind, aiding in achieving their work, life, and exercise goals. Ice baths are one of the most effective controlled stimuli for activating noradrenaline and dopamine, which is why they make you feel great and motivate you to continue!
To make ice bathing more comfortable, start with lukewarm water and gradually lower the temperature over several sessions. Focusing on deep breathing and relaxing the body can also help ease the initial shock of the cold water.
Yes, it is common to feel nervous or apprehensive before an ice bath, especially if you're new to the practice. This anxiety often lessens with experience as you become more accustomed to the cold. Focusing on your breath and staying calm can help you manage the initial discomfort.
Cold immersion causes blood vessels to constrict, which forces the heart to work harder to pump blood throughout the body. This process can strengthen the cardiovascular system over time, improving heart health and circulation. However, individuals with cardiovascular conditions should approach cold plunging with caution and consult a healthcare professional prior to your first use.
There is no universal best time to take an ice bath, as it depends on individual preferences and goals. Some people prefer to take an ice bath in the morning to kickstart their day with increased alertness and energy, while others find it beneficial after a workout to aid recovery. Evening ice baths can also be helpful for relaxation and improving sleep quality.
Health Benefits Part 1
Cold immersion activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps calm the body and mind. This can to decreased stress hormones like cortisol and increase relaxation and mental clarity. The cold also stimulates the production of noradrenaline, a neurotransmitter that helps increase alertness and focus.
Yes, ice bathing is commonly used by athletes and physical therapists to aid in injury recovery. The cold reduces blood flow to injured areas, which can help decrease swelling and inflammation. It also numbs the affected area, providing temporary pain relief.
The frequency depends on your goals and tolerance. Many people find benefits with 2-3 sessions per week, while others may practice daily. It's important to balance cold exposure with proper recovery to avoid potential negative effects, such as overstressing the body.
Ice bathing can be safe for most healthy individuals, but it may not be suitable for everyone. People with heart conditions, high blood pressure, or circulatory issues should consult a healthcare professional before starting cold therapy. Additionally, those who are pregnant or have certain medical conditions should seek medical advice.
After an ice bath, it's important to warm up gradually. You can do this by wrapping yourself in a warm towel, dressing in warm clothes, and drinking a hot beverage. Gentle movements, such as light stretching or walking, can also help restore circulation.
Yes, ice bathing can improve athletic performance by reducing muscle soreness, decreasing inflammation, and accelerating recovery. This allows athletes to train more effectively and recover faster between sessions.
Absolutely! Regular cold plunging can enhance mental resilience, reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and increase mental clarity. The practice of willingly exposing oneself to cold can also build mental toughness and discipline.
Health Benefits Part 2
Cold water exposure significantly affects the cardiovascular system by increasing blood pressure and heart rate, with variations based on age, gender, and frequency of exposure. While repeated exposure may lead to some adaptive benefits, it also poses risks, particularly for individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions. Understanding these responses is crucial for managing health risks associated with cold environments.
Wagner, J., & Horvath, S., 1985. Cardiovascular reactions to cold exposures differ with age and gender..Journal of applied physiology, 58 1, pp. 187-92 . https://doi.org/10.1152/JAPPL.1985.58.1.187.
Cold plunging has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health, including reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. The release of endorphins and the shock of cold water can create a sense of euphoria and mental clarity. Additionally, the practice can help build mental resilience, which can be beneficial for managing stress and emotional challenges.
Carona, C., & Marques, S., 2023. Beyond the cold baths: contemporary applications of cold-water immersion in the treatment of clinical depression and anxiety.BJPsych Advances. https://doi.org/10.1192/bja.2023.60.
Ice bathing can slightly activate the immune system, enhancing certain immune cell activities and cytokine levels with repeated exposure. It may also increase oxidative stress, but regular exposure can bolster antioxidant defenses. While there is potential for immunosuppression, this can be mitigated with specific interventions. Overall, the effects of ice bathing on the immune system are complex and can vary based on frequency and individual
Janský, L., Pospíšilová, D., Honzova, S., Uličný, B., Šrámek, P., Zeman, V., & Kamínková, J., 2004. Immune system of cold-exposed and cold-adapted humans.European Journal of Applied Physiology and Occupational Physiology, 72, pp. 445-450.https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00242274.
While ice bathing is generally safe for most people, there are some risks, particularly for individuals with certain health conditions. Potential risks include hypothermia, frostbite (in extreme cases), and cardiovascular stress. It's important to start slowly, monitor your body's response, and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
Consistency: Regular practice is key to experiencing the full benefits of ice bathing.
Breathing: Focus on deep, controlled breathing to manage the initial shock of cold immersion.Mindset: Approach cold plunging with a positive mindset, focusing on the benefits rather than the discomfort.
Gradual Progression: Start with shorter durations and gradually increase as your body adapts.
Post-Bath Care: Warm up gradually after an ice bath, and consider incorporating light movement or stretching to aid recovery.
SISU Product Questions
No need to worry—the Helsinki and SISU Chiller Bundle will consistently keep the water ice-cold for you.
Our ice baths are also designed to hold ice, offering a traditional experience if that's your preference.
- Filter Inspection: Every 1-2 weeks, inspect the filter by removing it from the housing. Rinse the filter using a garden hose with a high-pressure nozzle.
- Filter Replacement: Replace the water filter cartridge every 1-3 months, depending on daily or moderate use. For optimal performance, change the 20-micron filter once a month.
- Water Change: Periodically change the water based on usage and water clarity. You can connect a garden hose to the chiller outtake hose that normally pushes cold water into the tub, but instead, direct the old water to the nearest drain.
- Water Treatment: Using water stabilizers, Epsom salts or some hydrogen-peroxide will help maintain water clarity and extend its usability.
- Bath Cleaning: How often you clean the bath depends on usage and the environment. Tubs used daily require more frequent attention. Clean the tub with a soft bristle brush with some vinegar diluted with water or a light detergent and rinse throughly.
Both the tub and chiller can be used outdoors in temperatures as low as 1°C (34°F). When temperatures approach freezing, the low heating mode activates to prevent the water from freezing. We recommend providing some shelter from direct rain to extend the lifespan of the chiller housing.
Be cautious when operating in heavy rain, ensuring that the plug and socket connection stays dry. The GFCI cord will protect the unit from short-circuiting, but make sure the socket is properly grounded. (Do not submerge the unit in water and keep it away from stormwater runoff.)
Filling, operating, and maintaining the SISU Ice Baths is straightforward. To set up:
- Inflate the tub using the included manual pump.
- Connect the hoses from the chiller to the tub.
- Fill the tub with water using a garden hose.
If you're setting up indoors, you can use an adapter to connect to a nearby sink faucet or an expandable hose.
The SISU Ice Baths are a portable, all-in-one versatile system.
There’s no need for ice, as you can maintain your cold tub experience with our self-priming Chiller Pro and control your cold therapy sessions with our digital temperature controls on the machine or via the app.
It features an advanced 2-step water filtration method with ozone Injection to ensure a clean and safe dip. Plus, the compact size makes it convenient for small spaces, yet large enough for full-body submersion.
Additionally, our Ice Baths are also designed to accommodate ice in the traditional way, if that’s your preference.
It’s completely up to you.We recommend investing in the entireSISU Ice Bath & Chiller Bundle, as it makes incorporating ice baths into your routine hassle-free.
Once connected to a 2.4 GHz WiFi network, the SISU Chiller Pro can be fully controlled remotely through the smartphone app. With advanced customizable programming, you can easily schedule the tub to turn on or off at specific times, ensuring it's ready exactly when you need it. Whether you're preparing for an invigorating cold plunge in the morning or a soothing hot tub session in the evening, the SISU Chiller Pro is designed to fit seamlessly into your routine.
Shipping & Warranty
SISU Wellness offers a one-year standard warranty for all of our products, with extended warranty options available for purchase for up to 36 months.
We will repair or replace your product should it become defective within the warranty period from the purchase date. Standard manufacturing defects are covered; misuse or wear and tear are not covered.
Our support team is on standby to help you with any issues you may have during or after your warranty period.
Learn more about our warranty by emailing info@sisuwellnessco.com or by viewing our Warranty Policy
Still have questions? Get in touch—we’re here to help.
We’re a Canadian company and currently ship anywhere in Canada and the USA with options to shop worldwide.
If you're interested in our products and live outside of North America, please contact us at info@sisuwellnessco.com, and we will work with you to arrange shipping.
Orders typically ship within the same business day via UPS.
Cutoff time 11:00 a.m. (GMT-6)
Order processing time 24 hours, delivery on Mon-Fri
Delivery time 2-5 days, shipping on Mon-Fri
At the time of purchase, please consult with a SISU Wellness representative to receive a precise delivery estimate for your location.
We will keep you informed every step of the way with tracking updates.
For more Information, view our Shipping Policy.
Once your order is processed and ready to ship, we will send you a tracking number. If there are delays due to stock availability, such as filters being out of stock, we will notify you with an updated estimated arrival time. If some items are available while others are not, you can choose to proceed with a partial shipment or wait for all items to be in stock for a single shipment. We appreciate your patience and encourage you to reach out if you would like to check the status of your order.
If you experience any issues with your product, such as leaks or error messages, please reach out to us with a detailed description of the problem.
Whenever possible, include a video showing the issue to help us understand it better.
We recommend keeping the original packaging for your product. To expedite the process, be sure to include your order number in your message.
Our support team is dedicated to addressing your concerns quickly. Please send the video and details to info@sisuwellnessco.com.
We currently only handle shipping to North America and specific locations.
For inquiries outside of North America, please email our support team at info@sisuwellnessco.com, and we’ll do our best to assist you.
You can cancel your order through the link provided in your confirmation email. Alternatively, you can contact our customer service team at info@sisuwellnessco.com.
Please include your order number and reason for cancellation in your message. Orders can only be canceled before they are dispatched.
If your order has already shipped, please refer to our return policy for further instructions.