Are you hitting the gym but want more than just weights and cardio? If you’re looking for that extra boost in relaxation and recovery, finding a gym with a sauna might be the perfect choice. Saunas have been known for their numerous health benefits, including muscle relaxation, stress relief, and even improved circulation. But are they really worth the hype? Let’s dive into the 5 best gyms with saunas and see if they’re worth the sweat!
1. Life Time Fitness: The Ultimate Luxury Experience
Why it’s great:
Life Time Fitness offers a full luxury experience, and the saunas are no exception. These gyms are designed to feel more like wellness resorts, with both dry saunas and steam rooms available in many locations. After an intense workout, the sauna can be the perfect place to unwind and let your muscles recover.
Why it’s worth it:
Life Time’s focus on wellness means you’re getting more than just a workout. With amenities like spacious locker rooms, spa services, and state-of-the-art equipment, the sauna is just the icing on the cake. Plus, the calm atmosphere makes it a great spot to clear your head after a long day.
Tip:
Don’t skip their eucalyptus towels—talk about luxury!
2. Equinox: Fitness Meets Sophistication
Why it’s great:
Equinox is famous for blending fitness with high-end lifestyle. Their gyms offer both traditional saunas and infrared saunas, which are said to offer even deeper detoxification. The design of Equinox’s wellness areas screams sophistication, making it feel more like a day at the spa than a quick post-workout cooldown.
Why it’s worth it:
With Equinox, you’re not just getting a place to work out. The sauna becomes part of a larger self-care experience. If you love the finer things in life and want to feel pampered after your workout, Equinox’s saunas are worth every penny.
Tip:
Try their infrared saunas for a different sauna experience that some claim helps with detox and weight loss!
3. 24 Hour Fitness: Affordable and Accessible
Why it’s great:
For those looking for convenience and affordability, 24 Hour Fitness offers a great balance. Many locations are open around the clock, making it easy to squeeze in a workout—and sauna session—whenever your schedule allows.
Why it’s worth it:
While 24 Hour Fitness may not offer the luxury experience of Life Time or Equinox, their saunas still provide the relaxation and recovery you need. If you’re on a budget but still want the health benefits of regular sauna use, this gym is a solid option.
Tip:
Some locations have steam rooms too, giving you options depending on your mood.
4. LA Fitness: Budget-Friendly with Great Perks
Why it’s great:
LA Fitness is all about giving you the best bang for your buck. Most of their gyms include saunas, and with affordable memberships, it’s easy to see why this gym is so popular. The facilities are generally well-maintained, and the sauna area is no exception.
Why it’s worth it:
For the price you pay, you get access to a wide range of equipment, group classes, and the added perk of a sauna. Whether you want to sweat it out after a tough weightlifting session or simply relax after cardio, LA Fitness delivers a solid experience.
Tip:
Check out their pool areas—some locations even combine the sauna with a hot tub for the ultimate recovery combo.
5. Anytime Fitness: Small but Mighty
Why it’s great:
Anytime Fitness is known for its smaller, more personal gym environment, but don’t let that fool you. Many locations offer saunas, giving you access to a post-workout perk without the overwhelming crowds of bigger gyms.
Why it’s worth it:
The 24/7 access is unbeatable, and the intimate atmosphere makes it easy to unwind. While not every Anytime Fitness has a sauna, the ones that do offer a quiet, relaxed space for you to enjoy some downtime.
Tip:
Call ahead to confirm which locations have saunas, as not all do.
Benefits of Sauna Use in Gyms
You might be asking: “Why should I care about gyms with saunas?” Here’s why saunas can be a game-changer for your fitness routine:
- Muscle recovery:
After a workout, your muscles need time to recover. The heat from the sauna can help relax tight muscles and reduce soreness, making it a fantastic way to speed up recovery. - Stress relief:
Feeling stressed after a long day? The heat from a sauna can promote relaxation and help ease mental tension, leaving you feeling rejuvenated. - Detoxification:
Saunas make you sweat—big time! This can help flush out toxins from your body, leaving you feeling refreshed and cleansed. - Improved circulation:
The heat from a sauna helps to improve blood flow, which can have benefits like increased energy levels and faster healing of muscle tissues. - Clearer skin:
Regular sauna use can help cleanse your pores, leading to clearer, more vibrant skin over time.
Is the Heat Worth It?
In short: yes, gyms with saunas are absolutely worth it! Not only do they enhance your recovery process, but they also provide a mental escape and help relieve stress. Whether you’re at a luxury gym or sticking to a budget, finding a gym with a sauna is a win for your fitness and wellness routine.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the heat, sweat it out, and feel the benefits at one of these top gyms today!
How to Maximize Your Sauna Experience
Now that you’re sold on the idea of using a sauna at the gym, let’s talk about how to get the most out of your sauna session. Simply sitting there and sweating is great, but you can do even more to maximize the benefits.
1. Hydrate Before and After
This is key! Saunas cause a lot of sweating, which means you’re losing water. Make sure to drink plenty of water before you go in and rehydrate after your session. Electrolyte drinks are also a great option to replenish any minerals lost through sweat.
Pro Tip:
Bring a water bottle into the sauna to keep yourself hydrated, but make sure it’s one designed to withstand the heat!
2. Start Slow
If you’re new to saunas, start with shorter sessions of around 5-10 minutes. As your body gets used to the heat, you can gradually increase your time to 15-20 minutes. Overdoing it on your first try can make you feel dizzy or dehydrated, so it’s important to listen to your body.
3. Stretch It Out
Believe it or not, gentle stretching in the sauna can be super beneficial. The heat helps relax your muscles, making it easier to stretch and increase your flexibility. Just make sure the movements are light—this isn’t the place for a hardcore yoga session.
4. Alternate With Cold Showers
For an added boost to your circulation, try alternating between the sauna and a cold shower. This contrast between hot and cold temperatures can stimulate blood flow, reduce inflammation, and leave you feeling incredibly refreshed. You can also try a quick dip in a pool if your gym has one!
5. Add Essential Oils (If Allowed)
Some saunas allow you to bring essential oils, which can make the experience even more relaxing. Scents like eucalyptus or lavender can enhance the detoxifying and calming effects of the sauna. Just check with your gym’s policy first to see if they permit the use of oils.
When to Avoid Using the Sauna
While saunas offer plenty of benefits, there are a few situations where you should skip your session:
- If you’re dehydrated: Saunas increase your risk of dehydration, so if you’re already feeling low on fluids, it’s best to avoid it until you’re properly hydrated.
- After intense cardio: Right after a heavy cardio session, your body is already dealing with heat. Adding a sauna session on top can be too much, so give yourself time to cool down.
- If you’re pregnant or have heart conditions: Always consult with your doctor if you’re pregnant or have any medical conditions like heart problems before using a sauna.
FAQs About Gyms with Saunas
Before wrapping up, let’s dive into some common questions people have about gyms with saunas. These answers will help clear up any doubts and give you a better idea of what to expect when incorporating saunas into your fitness routine.
1. How Long Should I Stay in a Sauna After a Workout?
The ideal sauna session length is typically 15 to 20 minutes. However, if you’re new to saunas, start with 5 to 10 minutes and gradually increase the time. Always listen to your body—if you start feeling dizzy or overheated, it’s time to step out.
2. Are Saunas Safe for Daily Use?
Yes, saunas are generally safe for daily use as long as you stay hydrated and limit your sessions to no more than 20 minutes at a time. Daily sauna use has been shown to have long-term health benefits, such as improved cardiovascular function and reduced stress levels.
3. Can I Lose Weight by Using a Sauna?
While saunas can make you sweat, the weight you lose is primarily water weight. After you rehydrate, that weight will come back. However, regular sauna use can aid in recovery, reduce stress, and improve overall fitness, which can indirectly support your weight loss journey.
4. Do All Gyms Have Saunas?
No, not all gyms have saunas. It tends to be a feature in mid-range to luxury gyms, though some budget-friendly options are starting to offer them. Always check with the gym beforehand to see if they provide sauna access.
5. What Should I Wear in the Sauna?
This can vary depending on the gym’s rules, but typically, people wear a towel or lightweight workout clothes in the sauna. If you’re unsure, ask your gym about their sauna etiquette. Also, it’s important to bring an extra towel to sit on for hygiene purposes.
The Bottom Line: Is the Heat Worth It?
Incorporating a sauna into your fitness routine can be a game-changer. It offers a multitude of benefits, from faster recovery and muscle relaxation to better mental clarity and reduced stress. Plus, it’s a perfect way to end a tough workout, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Whether you’re a regular gym-goer or someone just starting out, choosing a gym with sauna access can take your health and fitness journey to the next level. The combination of physical and mental benefits is hard to beat, and with plenty of gym options to choose from, it’s easier than ever to find one that fits your budget and needs.
So, is the heat worth it? Absolutely. The question now is: are you ready to sweat it out?
Final Call to Action
If you’re on the fence about joining a gym with a sauna, why not try a day pass at one of the gyms we mentioned? Test it out for yourself and see the benefits firsthand. Already using a sauna in your fitness routine? Let us know how it’s impacted your workouts in the comments below!