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If you are just about to go for a walk, we have news for you: a hot bath is just as effective as exercise. These words are like oil to the soul for all those who do not like physical exercise. Is it really true and the benefits of a hot bath are comparable to a walk?
Scientists from Loughborough University decided to conduct a study and find out what happens to the body if you raise its temperature by 1 degree. We tested this with a hot bath.
In total, 14 men took part in the study: some basked in a hot bath (40 0 C) for an hour, while others pedaled a bicycle. Of course, the results were not surprising. The participants burned more calories while cycling. BUT, it also turned out that a hot bath can burn 130 calories for an hour. And that's the equivalent of a 30-minute walk!
Additional results
All participants had their blood sugar levels monitored for 24 hours after the experiment. And you know what? The highest sugar levels during that time were still 10% lower in those who took a bath instead of cycling.
The study authors also suggest that passive heat—an hour-long hot bath is fine—helps reduce inflammation in the body. The idea of passive heating as a treatment is relatively new and common in Finland. A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine in 2015 suggests that saunas (another type of passive heating) reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Given that all participants in the study were male, it can be assumed that the results for women will be different. However, despite this, a hot bath definitely has a number of advantages.
What are the other benefits of a hot bath?
Improves mental state, as in the bath we relax and get rid of bad thoughts
Warm bath:
- Promotes the release of endorphins;
- Improves sleep;
- Reduces blood pressure due to vasodilation;
- Increases metabolism, so that the body burns fat faster;
- Relieves joint pain and general stress;
- Enhances the body's natural self-healing processes.
Of course, a bath is not a substitute for exercise. But now you can feel no remorse for "doing nothing" if you suddenly decide to take a bath and relax.
