The popularity of the sauna isn’t just a feel-good wellness trend; it’s backed by compelling scientific research that links regular sauna use to healthy aging.
Two recent studies by the Global Wellness Institute and the Journal of Applied Physiology have found that using a sauna, also known as passive heat therapy, three times a week over a 6 to 8-week period improves cardiovascular health to a degree comparable to moderate-intensity aerobic exercise of the same duration. This doesn’t mean you should swap your workouts for sauna sessions entirely, but the research highlights significant benefits when combining passive heat therapy with a consistent exercise routine. Together, they offer a substantial benefit to heart health and overall well-being. We recommend starting with 5 minutes in the sauna and gradually increasing to 15 minutes. If you have concerns, please consult your provider first.
Not only are we seeing positive effects of sauna in cardiovascular health by improved blood flow, but also in longevity, metabolic health and cognitive resilience. This is why adding saunas to our locations aligns perfectly with Active Wellness’ commitment to longevity-focused programming and holistic member support.
Most Active Wellness Center locations offer saunas as a therapeutic modality for our members. At Active Wellness Center at Reed’s Crossing, members enjoy a Himalayan Salt Sauna, which provides additional benefits. The salt element is both anti-inflammatory, helping to reduce inflammation, and antimicrobial, combating bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
Discover the different types of saunas, the science-backed benefits of each, and who they’re best suited for, with insights from our team of wellness experts.
1. Salt Sauna: A sauna environment with salt walls or dispersed salt aerosol. This style can be infused into dry, steam or infrared saunas with temperatures 120°F.to 160°F.
Benefits: Salt is naturally antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, so it benefits respiratory health by opening airways, loosening mucus, and may improve breathing for those with asthma, allergies, COPD and sinus congestion. It also reduces inflammation and supports skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
Best for individuals with allergy or asthma, skin conditions, stress and anxiousness, detoxification and general wellness seekers based on the multiple therapy benefits in one short session.
2. Dry or Traditional Sauna: Wood-burning or electric heating systems which range from 150-195°F with low-moderate humidity.
Benefits: improved blood circulation, relieves muscle and joint pain, stress relief and supports detoxification through sweating.
Best for muscle recovery, those with joint stiffness or arthritis, and relaxation.
3. Wet Sauna or Steam Room: Fills with 100% humidity from steam generated by boiling water at a temperature between 110°F and 120°F.
Benefits: opens nasal passages and alleviates congestion, hydrates and improves skin complexion, eases respiratory issues, loosens muscles and joints.
Best for individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis and allergies, people with dry skin or eczema, and those looking for muscle relaxation.
4. Infrared Sauna: Emits infrared light to heat the body directly without heating the air through lamps or panels. Temperatures can range from 120-150°F
Benefits: deeper tissue penetration at lower temperatures, eases chronic pain and inflammation, enhances detoxification and improves circulation, improves skin tone, and can support weight loss by increasing core temperature.
Best for individuals with sensitivity to high heat, people who would like to detox to cellular cleansing, those with fibromyalgia, arthritis or auto-immune disorders.
Use this chart to match your wellness objectives with the ideal sauna solution.
Key sauna safety tips:
- Hydrate before and after.
- Exit immediately if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, nauseous, or uncomfortable.
- People with certain medical conditions (heart disease, low blood pressure, pregnancy, etc.) should consult a physician first.
Let the Active Wellness team guide you in selecting the ideal sauna solution for your community, promoting member health, recovery, and longevity while enhancing retention and driving fitness center revenue.
