As fitness enthusiasts endeavor to sculpt their ideal physique, an often overlooked yet potentially potent tool for augmenting muscle growth and endurance resides in the unassuming sauna. Sauna bathing, steeped in a rich historical legacy across various regions of the world, has evolved beyond its traditional role of relaxation and detoxification to emerge as a strategy with multifaceted health and fitness benefits, suitable for any time of the year.
The history of sauna bathing goes way back, both in many european countries and in large parts of Asia. In some countries, such as Finland, you find saunas in almost every home. Traditionally the sauna has been used for relaxation and cleansing, but today saunas are becoming increasingly used to achieve a number of specific health and fitness benefits.
One group that is quickly discovering the gains of sauna bathing are athletes, and not only for the usual, post-workout relaxation that has been common among gymgoers for long. According to Dr. Rhonda Perciavalle Patrick, Ph.D, increasing the body temperature can actually generate dramatic improvements in muscular growth and endurance. Dr. Patrick refers to this as ”Hyperthermic conditioning” which, judging from emerging research, seems to have a number of positive health effects.
Research indicates that consistent exposure to the sauna can lead to remarkable adaptations in the body. For instance, studies have shown that regular sauna use can increase plasma volume by as much as 5%, facilitating improved blood circulation to muscles and the heart. This heightened circulation contributes to a substantial boost in athletic endurance, enabling athletes to push themselves further during rigorous training sessions and competitions.
Incorporating regular sauna sessions into your workout routine can serve as a supplementary approach to your muscle-building endeavors, working in tandem with your efforts in the gym. Hence, the next time you find yourself sweating it out during a workout, consider the potential benefits of including a sauna session in your post-exercise routine.
Source: articles.mercola.com
