9 Reasons Why You Should Hit The Steam Room After Workouts

Benefits Of Steam Room After Workout

Workouts are an essential part of daily living that can't be overlooked. The benefits of workouts go beyond just helping you achieve that bikini body you have always dreamed of. Besides losing weight, workout has other tones of benefits such as improved energy levels, sleep quality, memory, and much more. And, you get to live a happy, healthy, and balanced life. However, there is a way you can improve the impact of your workouts by hitting the steam room just after your workout. Here you can know the benefits of steam room after workout.


Benefits Of The Steam Room After Workouts

Steam rooms serve a variety of benefits and are readily accessible in the nearby spas and gyms all over the world. Here are 9 reasons you should hit a steam room after a workout;

1. Skin Detoxification

The steam room benefits the skin in a number of ways. While workouts can help you keep your weight at bay and stay healthy, visiting the steam room after a workout can add more benefits like clearing and smoothing your skin.

For instance, the heat from the steam will open up your pores further and loosen any impurities and bacteria that could potentially clog in the pores to cause pimples, blackheads, and other skin conditions. The steam is also said to add moisture to your skin and therefore lessening the chances of having dry skin after a workout.

If you want moisturized, smooth, healthy, and glowing skin, then next time you exercise, try finishing up the practice by visiting a steam room. After all, not much energy is required as you will only be resting while sweating out your body.


2. Enhances Workout Endurance Performance

According to research, visiting the steam room after workout sessions can improve your overall endurance performance. Scientifically, steam rooms are said to improve the red blood cell count which can significantly enhance your workout endurance capacity.

For instance, a study at the University of Otago investigated the effects of visiting steam rooms and saunas of 6 distance runners. The study revealed that visiting the steam room after workout has increased their blood volume which enhanced their endurance running performance.


3. Muscle Recovery

It's normal for your muscles to feel sore after a workout. This pain is referred to as delayed onset muscle soreness and can be managed by visiting the steam room after workout. A study carried out in 2013 revealed that the immediate application of moist heat on the body after a workout can significantly relax the muscles and reduce muscle pain.

Additionally, it is said to soothe the nerve endings which promotes quick recovery and preserve muscle strength of the trainee. If you visit the steam room immediately after a workout, you will experience quick recovery and you will be able to take on another workout in no time.


4. Breath Better

Proper breathing during and after a workout can help you to avoid injury and promote faster recovery. Visiting the steam room after a workout will help you breathe better by warming up your mucous membrane which clears up congestion in the nasal passage and lungs.

If you suffer allergies and asthma among other breathing problems, it makes it harder or inconvenient for you to perform certain exercises or things. However, adding a steam room to your workout schedule after a workout will improve your breathing health over time.


5. Promote Further Weight Loss

While working out promotes weight loss, body steaming after a workout can help you shed off a few more pounds. The steam heat is said to improve the body's metabolic efficiency which in return improves circulation, oxygen efficiency, and hormonal changes. It further increases muscle mass and GH that is important in promoting weight loss. Just remember to rehydrate well before and after the steam session to avoid excessive dehydration.


6. Promotes Healthy Blood Circulation

Proper blood circulation during and after a workout is important for quick recovery, endurance performance, and overall body health. The heat from the steam room enlarges the blood vessels which translates into increased blood flow throughout your body. Increased blood circulation means that more nutrients and oxygen are delivered to the cells which enhance quick repair of tissues damaged during the exercise.


7. Reduces Mind And Muscle Stress

Your muscles and mind require relaxation after a workout to promote a healthy recovery. The heat from the steam room causes the body to release endorphins which reduces the stress level on the body and in return promotes relaxation. Most individuals who visit the steam room after a workout claim that they experience a calm and rejuvenated feeling that keeps them motivated throughout the rest of the day.


8. Treats Lung Disorders

If you suffer from respiratory complications such as sinusitis, bronchitis, and asthma, visiting the steam room after a workout session can help promote the health and efficiency of your respiratory system. According to studies, inhalation of hot moist air is effective in treating lung-related disorders such as asthma and common cold among others.

The steam heat opens up your breathing passageway creating more room for the flow of oxygen into your system. This gives immediate relief to respiratory disorders allowing you to enjoy new and greater endurance capacity during workouts.


9. Promotes Muscle Growth

Research suggests that working out can promote muscle growth and strength. But, adding a steam session in your workout routine can improve the overall results of your fitness goals. The steam heat boosts the release effects of GH and IGF-I growth hormones. These hormones are beneficial in promoting safe and natural muscle growth.


Caution

While there are numerous benefits of steam room after workout, there are a few risks associated with steam rooms that you should be aware of;

  • Dehydration - There is a risk of overheating and dehydration due to the excessive heat in the steam room. It is therefore extremely essential to drink enough water beforehand and after.
  • There is a high risk of infection through the skin. The high temperature is an ideal environment for the growth and spread of certain types of germs and bacteria.
  • Consumption of alcoholic drinks in the steam rooms and saunas can cause hypertension, sudden death, and heart problems.

Also, if you are pregnant or have health problems such as high blood pressure and heart problems, make sure that you consult with your doctor before a steam bath.


Conclusion

As discussed above, the benefits of steam rooms after workout are numerous and can greatly improve your overall chances of achieving your fitness experience and goals. You can use a steam room at the gym or at your home and make your fitness efforts more worthwhile.

Author:

Catherine Nderi

Catherine is a dedicated freelance health and science writer committed to excellence and professionalism. She specializes in health topics including diet and nutrition, immune-related diseases, surgery, and cancer.