Scientists at the University of Warwick have found that the Wim Hof method of ice baths and breathing exercises may reduce inflammation – but evidence is mixed on its effect on overall athletic ability.

The Wim Hof method has two main ‘pillars’ of deep breathing exercises and cold therapy.

The new study showed that combined, the two pillars were effective at reducing inflammation, which can cause many health problems including cardiovascular diseases, cancer and diabetes.

However, evidence for the effect of the breathing method is mixed, with competing studies giving no definite answer on its effectiveness.

Omar Almahayni, from Warwick Medical School at the University of Warwick said that: Our systematic review underscores the need for further investigation into the Wim Hof method’s effects on stress, inflammation, and overall health, offering valuable insights into its potential as a complementary approach to wellness.”

The study analysed eight different trials of the Wim Hof method. It found these trials all had small sample sizes, with high risks of bias found in most of them. This means that evidence from them claiming the Wim Hof method works totally should be treated with caution.

The cold therapy and ice baths the Wim Hof method prescribed caused an increase in adrenaline, which can indirectly reduce inflammation.

Researchers highlighted that the potential reduced inflammation caused by the Wim Hof method could benefit both the unwell – especially those with chronic inflammation – but also healthy people too.

The study, which is the first systematic review of the Wim Hof method, has suggested further research is needed to establish just how effective the Wim Hof method is.