Abstract

Physical activity is widely promoted as a preventive strategy against cardiovascular disease and death from this disease. However, the fact that some individuals are unable or unwilling to engage in physical activity highlights the need for alternative strategies. Passive heat exposure using hot water immersion could serve as an alternative to physical exercise, as it provides similar, if not greater, cardioprotection than physical activity. This perspective article presents evidence supporting our concept and provides recommendations for hot water immersion sessions.

Keywords: Cardiovascular disease, cardiovascular mortality, prevention, physical activity, passive heat exposure, hot water immersion.