How does a sauna effect health?

[bigstve12]

I've never really sat in a sauna before, until recently after one of my workouts. What is the point of a sauna? I know it causes vasodialation and its supposed to help excrete toxins, is this true? I took my HR while in there and it was about 120, do saunas help burn fat, b/c 120 is about what my HR is while doing low intensity biking. Couldn't find too much research on this topic.

 

[SofaGeorge]

Saunas cause Growth Hormone release and give you a cardio vascular workout.

There are a lot of studies on the health benefits of saunas. They basically give you the benefits of going to the gym and working out. This is great for older people who hve physical limitations that keep them from exercising.

 

[Peckz]

Im part finnish so taking saunas is part of my cultural heritage. I even have a small sauna installed in my appartment
I dont know exactly what saunas is supposed to do but one thing is for sure, it feels great!!!
After a good workout and a nice long sauna if feel like i could run through walls.

 

[edgecrusher]

They help w/ clearing of the cardiovascular system, which will aid recovery.

 

[MidwestJ]

Saunas cause Growth Hormone release and give you a cardio vascular workout.

no lie?

 

[Lee]

hes right, the steam in the air makes u breath harder and gives u a slight cardio workout. and it stimulates your body

 

[bigstve12]

Looks like im sitting in the sauna more often then

 

[collegiateLifter]

speaking of saunas, whats with the fat old men that always goto them? If I was a newspaper I would probably try to link saunas with getting old, fat and hairy

 

[bigstve12]

its easier for them then actually getting on a piece of equipment and actually exerting themselves

 

[AustinTX]

Im part finnish so taking saunas is part of my cultural heritage. I even have a small sauna installed in my appartment
I dont know exactly what saunas is supposed to do but one thing is for sure, it feels great!!!
After a good workout and a nice long sauna if feel like i could run through walls.

Man, I'd love a steam shower and sauna in my house.

That's something that's worth a remodeling