What Are the Benefits of a Steam Shower After a Workout?

A steam shower, also known as a steam room or wet sauna, has significant physical and mental benefits after a workout. Benefits include relaxation that promotes stress relief, the release of toxins for a clearer complexion, increase in circulation that enhances metabolism and a softening of muscles and tissues for pain relief and muscle relaxation.

Stress Reduction

While stress reduction is often a product of a great workout, a steam room after a workout helps get the most stress relief. A steam room helps quiet the mind while soothing the body. After a workout, tired muscles are reinvigorated by the warm, moist air of a steam room. Circulation increases so that the body releases the stress of the workout.

Muscle Relaxation

Muscle relaxation and stress reduction often occur simultaneously. After a workout, muscles are tired, sore and tight. Similar to the process of stress reduction, the moist and warm air increases circulation which causes muscles to release the toxins and lactic acid trapped in them by a workout. The release of these toxins and lactic acid also helps prevent soreness the next day. Joint stiffness also relaxes in a steam shower which, coupled with muscle relaxation, reduces the chance of injury and reverses some of the impact issues associated with some workout routines.

Metabolism & Immune System Increase

The increased heart rate and circulation help keep the effects of a workout active so that metabolism continues to increase. Steam rooms also induce a healthy state of hyperthermia, the raising of the body’s internal temperature above 98.6 degrees. When in a state of hyperthermia harmful organisms, such as viruses or bacteria, can’t live because of the increased body temperature. This reduces the organisms to a number that is easier for the immune system to battle and kill off.

Pain Relief

The moisture and heat of a steam shower after a workout help relieve pain. The pain may be present before or after a workout. Steam showers achieve pain relief through muscle relaxation. Lasting pain relief is usually achieved when deep muscle relaxation occurs. Initial muscle relaxation reduces the pain and tightness from the workout. To reach deep muscle relaxation individuals must allow muscles and joints to relax past the initial relation point so that little to no tightness is felt.

Enhances Complexion

The moisture and heat of a steam shower helps cleanse pores of dirt, oil and sweat built up during a workout. The heat melts the oil, dirt and sweat while opening pores so that the moisture pushes the toxins from the pores. A steam room also increases circulation and blood flow to the face and skin which stimulates the healing process. Bumps, bruises and skin imperfections acquired during a workout are reduced.

References

• Body Building: Full Steam Ahead-The Benefits of a Steam Bath