"Physiological adaptations to sauna use may improve endurance performance. A half-hour sauna session immediately after a run provides an additional stimulus, namely an increase in blood volume," states a study in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine. Therefore, sauna therapy may actually help improve the results of exercise if a sauna session is performed immediately after exercise.
Here are the key benefits of using a sauna after exercise:
Helps muscle recovery
After exercise, your muscles may feel sore. Even if they don't, your muscles need to recover after an intense workout. This is because they are put under extreme stress, which can even cause microscopic tears. It is these tears that can lead to inflammation, which can cause muscle tension, cramping, soreness, and sensitivity. Using a sauna enhances the recovery process by increasing blood circulation to the oxygen-depleted muscles. The heat generated by the sauna also helps relax the muscles and relieve any form of muscle tension.
Helps in weight loss
Weight loss can be an uphill battle for many exercisers or those planning to start exercising. Sauna use has been linked to weight loss, and there’s no reason not to try a sauna after a workout. Saunas can also boost the function of your lymphatic, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Additionally, infrared saunas can increase human growth hormone (HGH) secretions and reduce cortisol levels, which can aid in weight loss. Since cortisol is the body’s primary stress hormone, sauna sessions can indirectly help reduce stress and anxiety levels, notes The Sauna Place.
Detoxify the body
Sweating helps cool the body and releases toxins at the same time. To continue the benefits of sweating after exercise, a sauna session is the perfect way to end. Harmful substances such as nicotine, alcohol and toxic metals are also eliminated through sweat, leading to better health and a better mood. As always, make sure to drink plenty of water before and after a sauna session.
It's best to start with a 20-minute session and then gradually increase the length, up to 40 minutes. Also, remember to schedule some time between your workout and sauna session, rather than going in right away, the Livestrong article states.
Therefore, regular sauna bathing, especially after a workout at the gym, can improve health, reduce body fat, and help achieve fitness goals. These benefits, combined with the many benefits that saunas offer, make sauna therapy an indispensable therapy.