should i do infrared before or after exercise?
infrared saunas are a great addition to your fitness routine, offering benefits like muscle relaxation, improved circulation, and detoxification. but when is the best time to use an infrared sauna: before or after exercise? both options have unique benefits, and the choice depends on your goals and preferences. it's best to experiment and try both to see what works best for you. for your first infrared sauna session, we recommend doing it after training. here’s a guide to help you decide.
benefits of using an infrared sauna before exercise
warm-up
muscle preparation: the heat from an infrared sauna can help warm up your muscles, making them more flexible and reducing the risk of injury.
increased circulation: the sauna boosts blood flow, which can enhance oxygen and nutrient delivery to your muscles, preparing them for a workout.
mental focus
relaxation: spending time in the sauna before exercising can help you relax and clear your mind, improving your mental focus and concentration during your workout.
stress reduction: a pre-workout sauna session can lower stress levels, helping you approach your exercise routine with a positive mindset.
improved performance
endurance: the increased circulation and muscle warmth can enhance your endurance and performance, allowing you to exercise more effectively.
flexibility: the heat can improve joint and muscle flexibility, making it easier to perform a wider range of motions during your workout.
benefits of using an infrared sauna after exercise
muscle recovery
reduced soreness: the infrared heat helps to alleviate muscle soreness and stiffness by promoting blood flow and reducing inflammation.
faster recovery: using the sauna post-exercise can speed up the recovery process, helping your muscles heal and prepare for your next workout.
detoxification
sweat out toxins: sweating in the sauna helps to flush out toxins that accumulate during exercise, promoting overall detoxification.
skin health: post-workout sweating can also help cleanse your skin, removing impurities and leaving you feeling refreshed.
relaxation and stress relief
cool-down: a sauna session after exercise helps your body transition from high activity to a state of relaxation, aiding in the cool-down process.
mental relaxation: it provides a calm environment to relax your mind and body after an intense workout, reducing stress and promoting a sense of well-being.
enhanced flexibility
muscle relaxation: the heat helps relax your muscles, maintaining flexibility and preventing tightness after exercise.
joint relief: it can also reduce joint pain and stiffness, improving overall post-exercise comfort.
which is right for you?
pre-exercise
choose a pre-exercise sauna session if you want to enhance your warm-up, improve flexibility, and boost mental focus before working out.
it’s particularly beneficial for those looking to prevent injuries and improve overall workout performance.
post-exercise
opt for a post-exercise sauna session if your goal is to speed up recovery, reduce muscle soreness, and detoxify your body.
it’s ideal for those wanting to relax and unwind after an intense workout, helping to maintain muscle and joint health.
experiment and find your preference
try both: the best way to determine whether a pre or post-exercise sauna session is right for you is to try both and see how your body responds.
start with post-exercise: for your first infrared sauna session, we recommend starting after training. this approach focuses on recovery and relaxation, helping you experience the sauna's benefits in a comfortable and effective way.
summary
deciding whether to use an infrared sauna before or after exercise depends on your individual goals and preferences. it's best to experiment and try both to see what works best for you. for your first infrared sauna session, we recommend doing it after training to focus on recovery and relaxation.