Researchers from the University of Portsmouth’s School of Psychology, Sport and Health Sciences are seeking volunteers aged 55 and above for a study on hot tub usage and its potential health benefits. The study involves sitting in a 40C hot tub for 60 minutes, three times a week, over a six-week period. The aim is to explore whether hot tub use could enhance cardiovascular, cognitive, and muscle function, offering similar health benefits to exercise.
Lead researcher Daniel Piccolo explained that while regular exercise is known to improve health significantly, many people struggle to maintain exercise routines. Passive heating methods such as hot water immersion or saunas have shown promise in providing similar health benefits through rapid increases in body temperature. However, existing research primarily focuses on younger individuals, prompting the need to investigate the effects on older adults aged 55 and above.
The study will assess participants’ cardiovascular function, cognitive abilities, muscle strength, balance, and walking capabilities following the hot tub sessions. Non-invasive tests and blood samples will be collected to measure various health markers. Participants should be generally healthy without major cardiovascular or metabolic conditions like type 2 diabetes.
Mr. Piccolo highlighted that the study could offer a pleasant and feasible alternative to exercise for older adults by expanding knowledge on passive heating effects. The team hopes to determine if hot tub use can provide enjoyable health benefits for this age group, potentially complementing or substituting traditional exercise routines.
This research initiative underscores the University of Portsmouth’s commitment to exploring innovative approaches to improve health and well-being, particularly among older adults. Volunteers interested in participating in the study are encouraged to contact the research team to contribute to this valuable investigation.