The Science Behind Infrared Saunas: How They Boost Recovery

Recovery is an essential part of any fitness or wellness journey. Without proper recovery, the body cannot repair and rebuild, which ultimately leads to reduced performance, increased fatigue, and a higher risk of injury. Among the many recovery tools available today, infrared saunas have become increasingly popular. But what makes them different from traditional saunas? And more importantly, how do they actually help with recovery?

What is an Infrared Sauna?

Unlike traditional saunas that heat the air around you, infrared saunas use infrared light to heat your body directly. This light penetrates the skin and raises your core body temperature without making the surrounding air unbearably hot. The result is a more tolerable, yet deeply penetrating heat that offers a wide range of health and recovery benefits.

Infrared light is part of the sun's invisible spectrum. It's completely safe and has been used in various medical applications, including neonatal care and physical therapy, for decades.

Types of Infrared Waves There are three types of infrared waves:

• Near-infrared (NIR): Penetrates the skin's surface and is often used for wound healing and skin rejuvenation.

• Mid-infrared (MIR): Penetrates deeper into soft tissue, helpful for increasing circulation.

• Far-infrared (FIR): Goes deepest into the body and is commonly used in infrared saunas for full-body detoxification and muscle recovery.

Most commercial infrared saunas, including those at InnerFit, use far-infrared technology for its broad health benefits.

How Infrared Saunas Support Recovery

1. Improved Circulation: Infrared heat causes blood vessels to dilate, which improves blood flow throughout the body. Increased circulation delivers more oxygen and nutrients to fatigued muscles, speeding up the repair and regeneration process.

1. Detoxification Sweating is one of the body’s natural ways of eliminating toxins. Infrared saunas induce a deep, detoxifying sweat at the cellular level, helping rid the body of heavy metals, chemicals, and metabolic waste. A cleaner system functions more efficiently, which supports recovery and immune health.

1. Reduced Muscle Soreness: A study published in the Journal of Athletic Enhancement found that infrared sauna sessions significantly reduced muscle soreness and improved perceived recovery after strength training. This makes it easier to stay consistent with your training plan without being sidelined by DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness).

1. Pain Relief and Joint Health: Infrared therapy has been shown to reduce inflammation and pain in joints and soft tissue. This is particularly helpful for those dealing with chronic pain, arthritis, or recovering from injury.

1. Stress Reduction: Stress is one of the most overlooked barriers to recovery. Infrared sauna sessions help activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting a state of relaxation and reducing cortisol levels. When the body is in a relaxed state, it can heal more efficiently.

1. Improved Sleep Quality: Quality sleep is critical for muscle repair and hormone balance. Many users report better sleep following infrared sessions due to their calming, meditative effect.

Scientific Backing: Numerous studies support the use of infrared saunas for health and recovery. For example:

• A 2015 study in Clinical Rheumatology showed decreased pain and stiffness in patients with chronic conditions after using infrared therapy.

• Another study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found improvements in mood and lower stress levels in frequent users.

While more long-term studies are needed, early research and anecdotal evidence show strong promise.

Who Can Benefit from Infrared Sauna Therapy?

Infrared sauna isn’t just for athletes. It’s beneficial for:

• Fitness enthusiasts

• Busy professionals with high stress

• People dealing with chronic pain or joint issues

• Those seeking detoxification

• Anyone looking to improve overall wellness

Whether you’re lifting weights, training for a marathon, or simply looking to de-stress, incorporating an infrared sauna into your routine can elevate your physical and mental well-being.

Infrared Sauna at InnerFit Leichhardt

At InnerFit, we’ve made recovery easy and accessible. Our state-of-the-art infrared sauna sessions are designed to complement your fitness or wellness program. We provide a clean, relaxing space with everything you need to get the most out of your session.

We often recommend pairing the infrared sauna with:

• Float therapy for mental clarity

• Massage for deeper muscle relief

• Red light therapy for cellular regeneration

How to Get Started

New to InnerFit? Start with our Five-Class Starter Pack for $60. While it’s often used for group classes, it’s also a great way to explore our full range of recovery services, including an infrared sauna.

1. Choose your preferred recovery service

1. Book online at your convenience

1. Feel the benefits from your very first session

Infrared sauna therapy offers a powerful, science-backed way to support your recovery, enhance performance, and improve overall well-being. By incorporating this technology into your regular routine, you give your body the chance to rest, rebuild, and thrive.

Ready to experience the benefits for yourself? Book your session at InnerFit Leichhardt and make recovery an essential part of your fitness journey.

Book Your Infrared Sauna