A Hot Place To ChillWhat Is Compression Therapy, and What Does a Session Feel Like?
Written by: A Hot Place To Chill
Published Oct 19, 2026 · Updated Oct 19, 2026
Short answer: Compression therapy at A Hot Place To Chill, a recovery studio in New Buffalo, Michigan, uses air-filled sleeves that gently fill and release around your legs. A session takes about 15 minutes. You stay fully dressed, sit back, and relax. Many guests say their legs feel lighter afterward.
What is compression therapy?
Compression therapy uses soft sleeves (often called compression boots) that zip around your legs. A small machine fills sections of the sleeve with air, one after another, then lets the air out. The pattern repeats for the whole session. It is a simple, relaxing way to sit and rest your legs.
See compression therapy at our studio for times and passes.
How is it different from compression socks?
Compression socks give the same light, steady pressure all day while you go about your life. Compression boots are different: you sit down for a set time, and the pressure moves in waves, filling and releasing. Socks are something you wear; a compression session is something you sit back and enjoy.
Why do people use compression boots for tired legs?
Golfers, beach walkers and weekend drivers use them to sit and rest tired legs. After a long day on your feet, a short sit-down session is a common way to wind down.
What does a session feel like?
- The start: the sleeves fill slowly. It feels like a firm, even hug around your feet and calves.
- The middle: the squeeze moves up your legs in a steady rhythm, then lets go. Most guests find it calming. Some close their eyes or scroll their phone.
- The end: the sleeves release, you unzip, and you are on your way.
You set the comfort level with our team. If the pressure ever feels like too much, tell us and we turn it down or stop.
How long does it take, and what should I wear?
About 15 minutes. You wear the sleeves over your clothes, so there is no changing. Comfortable pants work best. Just slip off your shoes.
How does it fit into a visit?
A full visit at our studio takes about an hour. Many guests pair compression with:
- Desert Heat infrared sauna (25 minutes)
- Red light (12 minutes): the 3-wavelength bed in Room 3, the 4-wavelength panel in Room 4, or the 5-wavelength bed in Room 5
- Whole-body cryotherapy (3 minutes of cold air, not a plunge)
- Robotic massage chairs (15–30 minutes)
Compression is a popular way to finish, after the drive in or after a round of golf.
Who should check with a doctor first?
Compression is a relaxation service, not medical care. Please talk with your doctor before booking if you are pregnant, have a known blood clot history, heart or kidney conditions, open skin or recent surgery on your legs, or any condition where you've been told to avoid pressure on your legs.
Important: if one leg is suddenly swollen, warm, red or painful, or you have sudden shortness of breath or chest pain, do not use compression. Call 911 or seek medical care right away. These can be signs of a blood clot (CDC).
FAQ
How long is a compression therapy session?
About 15 minutes.
Do I need to undress?
No. The sleeves go over your clothes. You only take off your shoes.
Does compression therapy hurt?
It should not. It feels like a firm, rolling squeeze. You can ask us to lower the pressure at any time.
Can I do compression and sauna in the same visit?
Yes. Many guests do sauna, red light or cryo, then finish with compression. A full visit takes about an hour.
Where can I try compression therapy near New Buffalo?
At A Hot Place To Chill, 400 S Whittaker St, New Buffalo, MI 49117, in Harbor Country. We're a short drive from Three Oaks, Union Pier, Lakeside and Michigan City, IN.
Visit us
A Hot Place To Chill
400 S Whittaker St, New Buffalo, MI 49117
Call (269) 612-8913
Hours: Mon 8:30–6 · Tue 9–6 · Wed 8:30–6 · Thu 8:30–6 · Fri 9–4 · Sat 8:30–3 · Sun 10–2
Sources
This article is for general information about relaxation and recovery services. It is not medical advice.