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What’s Contrast Therapy?
It’s health and wellness like you’ve never seen it before, and it’ll probably come to Oz soon.
In the heart of London’s Canary Wharf, a groundbreaking wellness concept has emerged, blending physical rejuvenation with social connection. Arc, the UK’s first communal contrast therapy club, offers a unique experience that could soon make its way to Australia, given its rising popularity. The social wellness club movement has taken the US East Coast by storm and despite their first club opening only a few days ago, owners are planning their second Arc in London.
A New Approach to Wellness
Arc distinguishes itself from traditional gyms by focusing on contrast therapy—a practice that alternates between extreme hot and cold temperatures. Members engage in sessions combining time in the UK’s largest sauna, which can accommodate up to 65 people, with plunges into ice baths maintained just above 1°C. Facilities will include the UK’s largest sauna (created by Finnmark Sauna and big enough for up to 65 people), eight two-person Brass Monkey ice baths, an amphitheatre-style lounge area – complete with a striking central wooden art installation – and mixed changing rooms.
This method has been linked to numerous benefits, including:
- Increased energy levels ⚡
- Improved mood and mental clarity 🧠
- Accelerated metabolism and fat loss 🔥
- Enhanced athletic recovery 🏋️♂️
- Boosted immune system 🛡️
- Better sleep quality 😴
Social Wellness: The Emerging Trend
Unlike conventional fitness centres that focus on solitary workouts, Arc integrates communal spaces designed to foster social interaction. Features like an amphitheatre-style lounge and gender-neutral changing rooms encourage members to connect.
According to the Global Wellness Institute, the future of wellness is shifting towards community-driven experiences. People are no longer just looking for fitness spaces; they want places where they can engage socially while improving their health.
The new social bathhouse brand is the brainchild of Chris Miller, CEO and founder of White Rabbit Projects, a hospitality incubator that designs, develops and operates hospitality concepts.
Potential Expansion to Australia
Given Arc’s innovative approach and the global trend towards social wellness, it’s highly likely that similar concepts could gain traction in Australia. Fitness trends show that Australians are increasingly seeking wellness spaces that provide both health benefits and social engagement.
If Arc’s success continues in London, we could see expansion to cities like Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane, bringing this new fitness revolution to Australian shores.
The Future of Fitness
Arc’s blend of contrast therapy and social interaction is a game-changer in the fitness industry. As wellness spaces evolve, the demand for experiences that prioritize both physical health and social connection will continue to grow.
Will Arc-type gyms make their way Down Under? If its current momentum is anything to go by, we could soon see a new style of gyms hitting Australian shores.
