Key Takeaway
A 15-day Wim Hof Method intervention showed effects on cardiac autonomic function during cold pressor test but limited changes in resting cardiovascular or psychological parameters
Summary
This RCT evaluated a 15-day WHM intervention on cardiovascular and psychological parameters. Forty-two participants were randomized to WHM or control. Cardiovascular measures (blood pressure, pulse wave velocity, heart rate, HRV) and psychological parameters (perceived stress, positive/negative affect, subjective vitality) were assessed before and after at rest and during cold pressor test.
Methods
RCT with 42 participants randomized to 15-day WHM intervention or control. Assessed systolic/diastolic blood pressure, pulse wave velocity, heart rate, RMSSD, SDNN at rest and during cold pressor test. Psychological measures: perceived stress, positive/negative affect, subjective vitality.
Key Results
WHM group showed changes in cardiac autonomic function during cold pressor test. Limited significant changes in resting cardiovascular parameters or psychological measures between groups.
Figures
Figure 1
Limitations
Small sample size (42 participants). Short 15-day intervention period. Cold pressor test is an acute stressor, may not reflect daily life. Self-reported psychological measures. No long-term follow-up.