Should You Use A Sauna Before Or After Swimming?

You might be feeling conflicted once you arrive at your gym. Should you use the sauna before or after swimming? Generally, experts recommend swimming first.

Pairing a vigorous swim with a sauna session is an excellent way to combine the health benefits of a sauna with the benefits of a swim. If you’re fortunate enough to have access to both a pool and a sauna, you may be wondering, “should you use a sauna before or after swimming?” Of course, it’s a matter of personal preference, but using the sauna when you’re finished with your swim is the best way to increase blood flow, promote muscle repair, and prevent muscle soreness.

On the other hand, if you sauna before swimming, it can help loosen up your muscles if they’re tight. Let’s explore the pros and cons of both methods. Check out our round-up of the best music devices for swimming.

Swimming Before Sauna

Many sauna enthusiasts say they prefer using the sauna after swimming because doing it this way helps them perform better over time. Equally important, the sauna is a great way to wind down after a swim. You might also be interested in our Hoka Ora Recovery Slide Sandals review.

Benefits Of Using A Sauna After Swiming

• Muscle recovery
• Increased blood flow
• Better performance in lap times 

The downside of swimming before a sauna is that you risk overexertion by swimming first. After swimming, wait 10-15 minutes before heading to the sauna. This will allow your body to come to a normal temperature naturally. Use this time to drink some fluids before going to the sauna. 

Sauna Before Swimming

The sauna serves as a short warm-up that can help make your swim much more productive. Additionally, the sauna will increase your blood flow. Be sure to speak with your physician about how you should handle your swimming and sauna routine if you have a heart condition or other ailments. 

Benefits Of Using A Sauna Before Swimming

• May help prevent cramps
• Passive warm-up
• Loosens up tight muscles
• Alleviates joint pain

On the downside, using the sauna before swimming can drain your energy and cause dehydration. If you decide to use the sauna before swimming, don’t stay in the sauna for more than five minutes. Also, take a break for about 10-15 minutes before hopping into the pool. This will help your body cool down more naturally. 

Going Back And Forth Between The Pool And Sauna

The combination of swimming and using a sauna is a fantastic way to increase blood flow, relieve muscle and joint pain, and promote muscle repair. You might also be interested in our guide on when to use a Theragun.

To use this method, go to the sauna for 10 minutes, then head to the pool. Don’t swim aggressively. Instead, do leisurely laps to allow your heart rate to slow down. Then, go back to the sauna and sweat for ten more minutes. Follow this with another light swim. 

FAQs About Using A Sauna Before Or After Swimming