Saunas are not just a luxury; they offer numerous health benefits that make them a valuable addition to any fitness routine. From improving cardiovascular health to promoting relaxation and stress relief, saunas provide a unique opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate after a tough workout.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the benefits of gyms with saunas and provide a list of popular gym chains that offer this amenity.
Benefits of gyms with saunas
We’re big fans of saunas: their health benefits are immense. Here’s what you need to know about them.
1. Improved Cardiovascular Health
The heat from saunas causes the body to produce sweat, which can increase blood flow and lower blood pressure. Regular sauna use has been linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. Additionally, the heat can promote the release of nitric oxide, a compound that helps relax blood vessels and improve circulation.
2. Glowing Skin
Sweating in a sauna can help open up pores and remove toxins and impurities from the skin. The increased blood flow to the skin can also improve hydration and reduce inflammation. Some studies suggest that regular sauna use may even promote collagen production, which can help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
3. Relaxation and Stress Relief
After a grueling workout, the heat from a sauna can help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation. The warmth and humidity can also trigger the release of endorphins, improving mood and reducing stress levels.
What to expect at gym saunas
Saunas are usually small, enclosed rooms that are heated to high temperatures using dry heat. Many users find it as a way to unwind and relax after a workout—or as a way to warm up muscles before one.
Here are some things you need to know before stepping in:
- High temperatures: Saunas typically range in temperature from 160 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit, so it’s important to start slowly and gradually acclimate yourself to the heat.
- Keep hydrated: It’s important to drink plenty of water before and after using a sauna to stay hydrated, as the heat can cause you to sweat out a significant amount of fluids.
- Sweating: The high temperature in the sauna will cause you to sweat, which can help to flush toxins from your body and improve circulation.
- Skip the phone: Leave it either in your locker, or if you must, don’t use it before stepping inside. The hot temps can damage your phone, or most commonly: iPhone users may get an alert saying the phone will shut down.
Also read this Post: Gyms with Pools, Saunas
What gym chains have saunas?
Traditionally, saunas were found only in larger gym chains such as 24 Hour Fitness, LA Fitness and Lifetime—mainly because of their traditionally larger sized locations. However, as Crunch and Chuze started to expand (and build new gyms), we started to see them include saunas.
Access to this amenity is now widespread, as only the smallest footprint locations (Anytime, Planet) don’t yet have it.
Some locations in these gym chains have a sauna:
- 24 Hour Fitness
- Bay Club
- California Family Fitness
- Chuze
- City Sports Club
- Crunch Fitness
- Edge Fitness
- EoS Fitness
- Equinox
- Esporta
- Fitness 19
- Fitness SF
- Gold’s Gym
- In-Shape
- LA Fitness
- Life Time
- UFC Gym
- VASA Fitness
None of the locations in these chains have a sauna:
- Anytime Fitness
- Planet Fitness
- Retro Fitness
- Snap Fitness
- YouFit Gyms
Well, why don’t they have saunas?
Many different reasons. One large one: cost. Saunas need to be maintained and managed which adds to the overall cost of running the gym. Adding this amazing benefit would drive up monthly membership fees, and chains that charge $10 to $30 monthly usually have other types of (smaller, less expensive) amenities instead.
Another reason: Space. Smaller gym chains prioritize amenities like treadmills and weight training areas instead, packing their locations with this equipment.
Finding a Gym with a Sauna Near You
Now that you know the key gym chains that offer saunas, how can you find a specific location with this amenity near you? Here are some tips:
Check the gym chain’s website
Most major chains like 24 Hour Fitness, LA Fitness, Equinox, and Lifetime have filters on their website that allow you to search for locations with amenities like saunas. Simply go to the location finder, enter your zip code, and check the “sauna” box.
Call the gym
If the website isn’t clear, simply call your closet gym location and ask if they have a sauna on-site. The front desk staff should be able to give you a definitive answer.
Read reviews
Sites like Yelp and Google are great for seeing what amenities members mention. If a sauna is available, you’ll likely see comments about it in the reviews for that specific location.
Visit in person
As a last resort, you can always visit the gym location in person and ask for a guest pass or tour to see their amenities first-hand.
Making the Most of Gym Saunas
Once you find a gym with a sauna, here are some tips to make the most of your sauna sessions:
Stay hydrated
As mentioned earlier, it’s crucial to drink plenty of water before and after using a sauna to avoid dehydration. Bring a water bottle with you.
Start slow
If you’re new to saunas, start with shorter sessions of 5-10 minutes to allow your body to acclimate to the high heat. Gradually increase your time as you become more comfortable.
Bring a towel
Use a towel to create a barrier between your skin and the hot sauna surfaces. You’ll also need a towel to wipe away sweat.
Monitor your body
Pay attention to any signs of dizziness, nausea or extreme fatigue and exit the sauna immediately if you experience these symptoms.
Cool off slowly
Don’t shock your body by going from the intense heat to frigid temperatures. Instead, allow your body to cool down gradually before stepping outside or into a cold shower.
Enjoy the relaxation
One of the biggest benefits of saunas is the deep relaxation they can provide. Use the time to de-stress, meditate or simply rest your mind and body.
Conclusion
In summary, adding a sauna session to your gym routine can provide excellent health and wellness benefits. By finding a gym location with this amenity using the tips above, you can improve your cardiovascular health, skin, relaxation and more. Just remember to stay hydrated, start slowly and listen to your body.
