Sauna vs Hot Tub: A Comparison of the Health Benefits and Features
Let’s take a look at a sauna vs hot tub and compare the health benefits and features that each brings to the table. Saunas and hot tubs are two of the most popular relaxation and health-enhancing options for people looking to relieve chronic stress, spend quality time with family and friends, and more. Both offer a beautiful way to unwind and escape, while also providing a space to focus on improving overall health. So, how can you possibly choose between the two?
Features of a Sauna vs Hot Tub
A sauna is a small room or building designed to promote relaxation and sweating. Traditional saunas use heat from steam that is provided by either rocks or a stove. These options heat the surrounding air to initiate healthy sweating. Infrared saunas and far infrared saunas raise a user’s body temperature using infrared lights. While these options still promote healthy sweating, they use a lower temperature and may be more comfortable for some users.
Saunas also feature elements for comfort, such as bench seating, and can be custom-made to fit your space and style.
Hot tubs are typically made of acrylic or fiberglass and feature a jet system that circulates the water. They vary in size, shape, seating arrangement, and jet positions which allows you to find the perfect hot tub for your needs.
A Comparison of Health Benefits
Both saunas and hot tubs have a long history of being used for their therapeutic benefits. They have both been shown to improve:
- Cardiovascular health
- Stress levels
- Muscle recovery after intense exercise
- Pain relief
- Sleep
- Circulation
The key lies in the heat, which increases endorphins and promotes feelings of happiness and well-being. Saunas can also help reduce the levels of the stress hormone cortisol, helping to alleviate mental tension and anxiety.
Sauna vs. Hot Tub: Which is Better?
Both options will help you move further tremendously as you focus on your health, whether your goals are mental, physical, or both. One really isn’t better than the other, rather one may just be better for you. Consider your available space, would a sauna fit inside your home? Would a hot tub fit in your backyard? Are you hoping to relax alone or with that special someone? A sauna might work best. But, if you’re hoping to entertain or spend quality family time, a hot tub is a good option, featuring a seat for everyone.
Both are excellent at post-exercise recovery, but hot tubs are designed to focus on alleviating joint and muscle pain, while a sauna may work better to improve flexibility. They can also both work well for you all year long, but each provides a unique benefit throughout the changing seasons. Saunas are known to help control allergies, while a hot tub is famous for offering unmatched warmth and coziness in the colder months.
At Maximum Comfort, we believe in the health benefits and features of both saunas and hot tubs, and that’s why we bring you both. If you’d like more information on a sauna vs hot tub, contact us today and we’ll be happy to answer any questions.
