Here are six simple practices that you should always follow:
- Stay hydrated: Drink lots of water as you lose 600ml of sweat per session.
- Shower before entering: This is beneficial for hygiene as it removes sweat build-up.
- Use appropriate attire: Wear breathable, loose-fitting clothing, and keep it minimal.
- Find a comfortable temperature: Adjust the sauna temperature so that you are comfortable.
- Focus on relaxation: Take deep breaths and avoid exerting too much energy.
- Cool down slowly: Avoid rapid temperature changes after exiting the sauna.
Gym Sauna Etiquette
Gym sauna etiquette is the general guideline to respect others’ use of the gym sauna. Acknowledging other’s involvement is essential to creating a comfortable sauna experience.
Some simple rules you should follow are: Respect the dress code, sit on a towel, make room for others, ask before adjusting the temperature, avoid bringing electronics, don’t exercise in the sauna, keep the door closed, and smile and be polite.
One core element of sauna etiquette and sauna optimisation is wearing the right attire. To learn more, check out our previous article: What to Wear in a Sauna: A Complete Guide.
Conclusion
Using a sauna after a workout is a fantastic way to speed up muscle recovery, relieve stress, detoxify, improve flexibility and mobility and cardiovascular health. However, getting the most out of your saunas will require 15 to 20 minutes of relaxation.
Use this as a baseline for your post-workout saunas, and adjust based on your individual needs and comfort.
Always acknowledge gym sauna etiquette and implement safe sauna protocols: Stay hydrated, shower before entering, use appropriate attire, find a comfortable temperature, focus on relaxation, and cool down slowly.
With this new-found knowledge, you’ll be able to make saunas a viable extension of your workout routine.
FAQ
Should I sauna before or after a workout?
While a sauna can be used to warm up before a workout, it is most beneficial for recovery afterwards. This is because it alleviates muscle tension, which is most prominent after an intense workout.
Should I sauna after every workout?
It is beneficial for your health to use a sauna after every workout. Just be mindful to not over-exert your energy and do it at a comfortable temperature.
What should I wear in a sauna?
In a sauna, cover yourself with a towel, or wear breathable clothing. Attire made from cotton or linen is optimal.
What is the best temperature for a sauna after a workout?
The best temperature for a sauna after a workout is one that stimulates sweating, yet is still comfortable to handle. It is too hot if you feel unwell, experience discomfort, or excessive thirst.
Are saunas after a workout safe?
Saunas after a workout are completely safe if done correctly! Saunas are an effective tool for increasing your mental and physical resilience.