Yes, Lifetime Fitness offers both dry-heat saunas and eucalyptus-infused steam rooms for members. While the saunas utilize dry heat, they are not the infrared type. The steam rooms offer a eucalyptus-scented humid environment.
These amenities are more than just a warm retreat; they are designed to aid in workout preparation, and post-exercise recovery, and contribute to overall health and well-being.
However, it’s important to note that infrared saunas are not among the offerings at Lifetime Fitness clubs.
The Sauna and Steam Room Experience at Lifetime Fitness
When you step into Lifetime Fitness, you have the option to indulge in a heat therapy session before or after your workout.
The club features dry saunas, which typically operate at temperatures between 160 and 180 degrees F (Fahrenheit), and steam rooms, which max out at 115 degrees F with 100% humidity.
These facilities are more than a spa-like luxury; they’re a health and fitness aid.
Fitness Benefits of Sauna and Steam Room Use
1. Pre-Workout Warm-Up: Dry heat from the sauna can serve as an excellent prelude to your workout routine. It warms up your muscles, increases blood flow, and raises your core temperature, laying down the groundwork for an effective workout.
2. Post-Workout Recovery: Whether you choose the dry heat of the sauna or the moist warmth of the steam room, both can facilitate post-exercise recovery. They stimulate increased blood circulation, which can help alleviate muscle soreness and reduce inflammation.
3. Congestion Relief: The steam room’s warm, moist air, combined with the therapeutic scent of eucalyptus, can help clear up sinus congestion and provide respiratory relief, especially for those with allergies.
4. Enhanced Workout Results: Using the sauna after workouts may contribute to improved physical endurance, as suggested by research. While it’s not a substitute for exercise, it complements your workout efforts effectively.
Health Benefits of Regular Sauna Use
Lifetime Fitness’s dry saunas offer an array of health benefits:
Heart Health
Regular sauna use has been linked to a reduced risk of cardiac events and all-cause mortality. Studies indicate that frequent sauna sessions can contribute significantly to cardiovascular health and longevity.
In particular, the frequency is associated with a decreased risk of:
- sudden cardiac deaths
- coronary heart disease
- cardiovascular disease
- all-cause mortality
Rheumatic Disease Symptom Reduction
People suffering from rheumatic conditions, including fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis, may find relief from regular sauna use. The heat can reduce chronic pain and improve quality of life for those with chronic fatigue and pain syndromes.
Improved Exercise Performance
Athletes may notice enhanced performance from consistent sauna use. While the research is based on small trials, the physiological benefits observed include better endurance and recovery.
Skin Condition Relief
For those with conditions like psoriasis, sauna use can help alleviate uncomfortable symptoms like itching.
Asthma Symptom Management
Regular sauna visits may also benefit individuals with asthma by reducing wheezing and improving lung function.
Reduced Dementia Risk
There’s a correlation between frequent sauna use and a lower risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, as found in a 2017 study. This suggests that sauna bathing could be a protective lifestyle factor against common memory diseases.
Comparing Dry Saunas to Steam Rooms and Infrared Saunas
While both dry saunas and steam rooms enhance well-being through heat, they offer different experiences due to their distinct environments.
Steam rooms, with their moisture-rich air, can improve circulation, loosen tight muscles and joints, and benefit skin and respiratory health.
Infrared saunas, on the other hand, directly warm your body with infrared lamps at lower temperatures, making them more tolerable for extended periods compared to the intense heat of dry saunas.
However, Lifetime Fitness clubs do not currently offer infrared saunas.
Maintaining Safety While Enjoying Sauna Heat
Exercise caution when it comes to sauna and steam room use if you’re managing health concerns. Elevations in core temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure due to the heat can have adverse effects on individuals with medical conditions like hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, or renal issues.
Always seek medical advice if you have health conditions that might be exacerbated by heat exposure. Pregnant individuals should also consult with healthcare providers due to the risks associated with high temperatures.
If you’re unaccustomed to sauna or steam room use, it’s wise to introduce your body to the heat gradually. Begin with short visits, about five minutes, and slowly extend your time as your tolerance to the heat increases.
Hydration is key. The intense sweating in a sauna can lead to significant fluid loss, so it’s imperative to drink water before and after your session to replenish lost fluids. For those who may experience dehydration, a sugar-free electrolyte beverage can help restore balance.
Sauna etiquette is also part of safe use. To prevent accidents, avoid drying clothes inside the sauna, and do not pour water over the heater’s rocks.
Before relaxing in the sauna, consider these additional safety tips:
- Moderation is crucial. Limit your sauna sessions to a safe duration.
- Hydrate adequately before and after your visit to the sauna.
- After exiting, let your body temperature normalize gradually.
- It’s best to forego alcohol as it can affect your body’s response to the heat.
- Rise slowly after sitting or lying down to prevent dizziness. If lightheadedness occurs, sit down until it passes.
- A pre-sauna shower is recommended for cleanliness and to prepare your body for the heat.
Lifetime Fitness Sauna Rules
To ensure a pleasant and respectful atmosphere, Lifetime Fitness has established guidelines for sauna and steam room use:
1. Modesty and Hygiene: When visiting the sauna or steam room, modesty is key. For the comfort and hygiene of all guests, we ask that members remain suitably covered. In gender-specific areas, a towel is sufficient, while in mixed spaces, please wear a swimsuit or gym attire.
2. Respect for Shared Space: Be considerate of shared space. While stretching out may be relaxing, please be conscious of others’ space, especially during peak times.
3. Maintain tranquility: These areas are meant for quiet reflection, so please keep phone conversations out of these spaces. Not only is it a disruption, but the heat and humidity can also damage your device. Additionally, activities like shaving or active exercising are prohibited.
Certain behaviors are not permitted for safety and maintenance reasons:
- Do not pour water onto the sauna’s heating elements.
- Avoid hanging any clothing items to dry within the heat of the sauna or steam room.
- Exercise attire such as rubber suits or overly bulky clothing is not suitable for these heated environments.
- Our sauna and steam room facilities are zones of quietude, meant for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Conclusion
The inclusion of saunas and steam rooms at Lifetime Fitness adds a dimension of relaxation and health benefits to your fitness regimen.
Whether you’re looking to warm up before exercise, accelerate recovery, or simply enjoy a moment of tranquility, these amenities are a testament to the club’s commitment to comprehensive wellness.
With proper use and etiquette, you can safely incorporate heat therapy into your fitness journey, reaping the rewards of relaxation and rejuvenation.
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