One of the most incredible ways to relax and recover after a hard workout at the gym is to take a sauna session. With its deep heat and steam, the sauna can help to soothe sore muscles, reduce tension and stress, and even help your body to detoxify. But if you’re not careful, a sauna can also be dangerous. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your post-workout sauna session.
Tip #1: Stay Hydrated before and during Your Sauna Session
Ensure that you are adequately hydrated before your session. Your workout already drains you of fluids. Going inside a sauna immediately after your time at the gym can make you even more dehydrated, leading to dizziness and lightheadedness. Make sure to drink plenty of water before and after your session.
Tip #2: Use a Lower Temperature to Start
Be mindful of the temperature of the sauna. Saunas typically range in temperature from 65 °C to 90 °C. If you’re new to saunas, starting at the lower end of the range is best, and working your way up as you become more comfortable. The temperature should be comfortable yet hot enough to make you sweat.
Tip #3: Choose the Right Clothing
It’s also essential to wear suitable clothing when taking a sauna session. After your workout, you can change into loose-fitting, breathable clothing such as shorts and a t-shirt. This will help to keep your body cool and reduce the risk of overheating. Avoid wearing any tight-fitting or restrictive clothing.
Tip #4: Take a Break in between Sauna Sessions
It’s best to step out of the sauna every few minutes to cool down and rehydrate. Doing so will help your body regulate its temperature and recover more quickly. If you start feeling faint, dizzy or experiencing other unusual symptoms, you should immediately stop the session and step out of the sauna.
Tip: #5: Don’t Stay in the Sauna for Too Long
Limiting the amount of time you are in the sauna is also ideal. The optimal time will vary depending on your needs, but it is generally best to remain in the sauna for no more than twenty minutes. Any longer, and you risk overheating, which can lead to adverse health effects.
Final Thoughts
By following these recommendations, you can ensure that you get the most out of your post-workout sauna session. In addition to helping reduce muscle soreness and promoting relaxation, saunas can also help flush out toxins and provide a sense of overall well-being. So, make sure to keep these tips in mind when you want to get into the sauna after your exercise.
Stay hydrated, start with a lower temperature, take breaks between sessions, and don’t stay in the sauna for too long to get the best results from your post-workout sauna session.
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