10 Benefits of Steam Rooms: Is It Best for Post-Workout or Pre-Workout?
Are you a fitness enthusiast seeking ways to rehabilitate? You must have heard about steam rooms then. Why do people rave about them, especially after workouts? Today, you’ll find out the benefits of steam rooms. Whether you’re a gym lover or just looking for a new way to unwind, this is for you!
What Are Steam Rooms?
Steam rooms are warm retreats where a gentle steam mist envelops you, soothing your senses. These enclosed spaces with steam generators create a humid and hot environment, perfect for relaxation and health benefits. The temperature in steam rooms typically ranges from about 110°F to 120°F ( or 43°C to 49°C).
This creates a soothing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and enjoying some health benefits. Steam rooms are often found in gyms, spas, and sometimes even in homes. They are a great place to relax your muscles, clear your mind, and just take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
History of Steam Room Baths
The history of steam room baths is deeply rooted in the traditions of ancient Rome, where they were more than just a place for bathing; they served as a vibrant social and community hub. Originating during the Roman Empire’s zenith, these baths were accessible to all, irrespective of social standing, reflecting the democratic nature of Roman society. Fueled by natural hot springs, the Roman baths were an architectural marvel, with elaborate pipes and pumps channeling the geothermal waters into grand bathing pools.
This historical legacy is still visible today in places like Bath, England, where elements from various eras – Roman, medieval, Georgian, and Victorian – have been preserved in public baths or Thermae. Modern steam baths, while technologically advanced with heaters to maintain temperatures, still often rely on the ancient method of utilizing natural springs.
Should You Enjoy Steam Rooms After or Before Workouts?
The big question: should you steam it up before or after hitting the weights or a hard cardio workout? Well, it depends on what you’re aiming for. Pre-workout sessions in a steam room can loosen your joints and warm up your muscles, making you more flexible for your workout. Post-workout, it’s all about recovery and relaxation. The steam helps soothe those worked-up muscles and aids in faster recovery.
How Long Should You Enjoy a Steam Room Session?
Timing is key! A quick steam session before your workout can prep your body, but the real magic happens post-exercise. Imagine giving your muscles that luxurious, relaxing treatment after a tough session. That’s what you can get with a steam room post-workout. So if your gym has a steam room then you should definitely try it after a hard rowing workout or pilates.
Top Health Benefits of a Steam Room
Here are the top 10 benefits you can get from a steam room after you’re done with your workout routine:
- Relaxation
- Healthy Blood Flow
- Relieving Joint and Muscular Tension
- Burns Calories/Weight Loss
- Treatment for Cardiovascular Diseases
- Opens Sinuses
- Clearing Skin
- Improved Workout Recovery
- Lowers Blood Pressure
- Mental Wellness
1- Relaxation
Who doesn’t love the feeling of unwinding and letting go of stress? That’s exactly what a steam room offers. The warm heat that covers you during a steam room session boosts the production of ‘endorphins’, which are wonderful ‘feel-good’ hormones. It’s like being hugged by warmth, easing your mind and body into a state of blissful relaxation. The steam room is not just a place; it’s an experience that helps you shed the weight of your daily worries and tensions. It’s similar to having a personal spa retreat, available any day you need it.
2- Healthy Blood Flow
Think of a steam room as a gym for your blood vessels. The heat works wonders on your circulatory system. It causes blood vessels to dilate, widening and allowing more blood to flow through. This increased circulation brings more oxygen and nutrients to different body parts, rejuvenating your cells and organs. It’s like a boost of vitality, enhancing overall health and leaving you feeling invigorated. Steam rooms are the way to go for anyone looking to give their body’s internal highway a tune-up.
3- Relieving Joint and Muscular Tension
Sore after a workout? The moist heat in steam rooms penetrates deep into muscles and joints, easing tension and soreness. It’s like a gentle, warm massage all over your body, helping to relax tight muscles and lubricate stiff joints. Steam rooms are particularly beneficial for those with muscle soreness, arthritis, or chronic pain. It’s a natural, soothing remedy that helps prepare your body for the next workout or simply helps you recover from the day’s activities.
4- Burns Calories/Weight Loss
Now, let’s talk about the age-old question of whether steam rooms help in weight loss or not. While lounging in a steam room isn’t a standalone weight loss strategy, it has a role. The heat fastens your heart rate, similar to what happens during light exercise. This increased heart rate can lead to burning extra calories. Plus, sweating requires energy, which means you’re burning calories just by sitting there! But remember that staying hydrated is crucial as you’re losing water through sweat. So, while it’s not a replacement for regular exercise and a healthy diet, it’s a nice addition to your weight management plan. Avoid it if you have high blood pressure issues!
5- Treatment for Cardiovascular Diseases
Steam rooms might just be your new best friend for those mindful of heart health. Regular use of steam rooms can positively affect your cardiovascular system. The heat helps lower blood pressure by relaxing and expanding your blood vessels, which reduces the strain on your heart.
It’s like a gentle workout for your heart, which can improve its function over time. Steam rooms are valuable for those looking to maintain or improve their heart health alongside a balanced diet and regular exercise. It’s a soothing, enjoyable way to support one of your body’s most vital organs.
6- Opens Sinuses
Got a case of the sniffles or feeling stuffy? Step into a steam room and say hello to clearer breathing. The warm, moist air works like a gentle, natural decongestant, opening up your sinuses and easing any blockage. It’s particularly soothing during allergy season or when battling a cold.
The steam helps thin and loosen mucus, allowing you to breathe more easily. It’s like giving your respiratory system a refreshing spa treatment, helping you to inhale comfort and exhale relief.
7- Clearing Skin
You know that face-steaming experience that you get in spas that clears all your pores and leaves your skin glowing? You can get the same experience in a steam room. The steam opens up your pores, allowing the sweat to wash out any impurities and toxins. It’s like a detox for your skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Regular steam room visits can help reduce acne and give your skin a healthy, natural glow. It’s a simple, relaxing way to keep your skin looking and feeling its best.
8- Improved Workout Recovery
For the fitness enthusiasts out there, steam rooms can be your secret weapon for recovery. After a rigorous workout, your muscles can feel sore and tired. The heat and humidity of a steam room increase blood circulation, bringing more oxygen and nutrients to your muscles.
This helps in faster healing and reduces the duration of muscle soreness. It’s like a warm, soothing embrace for your muscles, helping them relax and recover more efficiently. So, after your next workout, consider a steam room session to bounce back faster!
9- Lowers Blood Pressure
Steam rooms can be a surprisingly effective ally for those monitoring their blood pressure. The heat causes blood vessels to dilate, which can lead to a temporary decrease in blood pressure. It’s a gentle, relaxing way to give your cardiovascular system a little TLC. Of course, it’s not a substitute for medical treatment, but it can be a great supplementary practice.
10- Mental Wellness
Lastly, steam rooms are also great for your mental health especially if you’re stressed after a long day. How? The warm environment helps to calm your mind, reduce stress, and promote a sense of well-being. It’s like pressing a reset button on your mental state. The heat encourages relaxation, improving sleep quality and a more positive mood. It’s a sanctuary where you can take a break from the outside world, meditate, and focus on your mental health. A regular steam room routine can be valuable to maintaining your overall mental wellness.
Difference Between Steam Rooms vs Saunas
Steam rooms and sauna baths are both popular for relaxation and health benefits, but they differ significantly in their environment and the heat they provide. Steam rooms offer a moist heat experience, with temperatures typically around 45°C to 49°C, accompanied by nearly 100% humidity.
This creates a warm, misty environment, ideal for deep skin cleansing and helping with respiratory issues. Saunas, on the other hand, provide dry heat with lower humidity levels. They are usually hotter than steam rooms, with temperatures ranging from 71°C to 93°C.
The dry heat in saunas is excellent for muscle relaxation and sweating without the intense moisture of steam rooms. While both can help you relax and offer health benefits like improved circulation and stress relief, choosing between a steamy, humid room and a dry, hot sauna often comes down to personal preference and specific health needs.
Get a Harvia Steam Room for Your Gym!
Thinking of adding a steam room to your gym? Harvia steam rooms are top-notch, offering the best quality and relaxation experience. Harvia is a renowned Finnish brand that has been manufacturing traditional saunas and steam rooms for decades. They are known for the perfection and rich experience added to their products. Hadayat & Co. is the sole distributor of Harvia steam rooms in Pakistan, so contact us if you want to set up a steam room in your spas or gyms. Your gym members will thank you!
FAQs
How long should I stay in a steam room?
You should just stick to 10-15 minutes per session to avoid dehydration as steam rooms can result in water loss from the the body.
Can I use a steam room every day?
Absolutely! You can normally use a steam room after a workout, but don’t overdo it. Keep yourself hydrated.
Is it safe for everyone?
Most people can enjoy steam rooms, but if you have health concerns like low blood pressure or are pregnant, consult your doctor first.