Maximizing Your Fitness: Unlocking the Potential of Sauna Workouts on Apple Watch

AvatarByJeff Duncan Workout

It’s no secret that staying active is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. And with the advancement of technology, tracking our workouts has never been easier. From step counts to heart rate monitoring, smartwatches like the Apple Watch have become a popular tool for fitness enthusiasts. But can wearing an Apple Watch during a sauna session also count as a workout? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the question – Is Sauna A Workout On Apple Watch? And explore the benefits and limitations of using this device while sweating it out in the sauna. So put on your workout gear and let’s discover the truth behind this trending fitness trend.

Saunas have been around for centuries and are known for their various health benefits. With the advent of technology, many people now turn to fitness trackers like the Apple Watch to monitor their workouts. However, some may wonder if using a sauna can be considered as a workout on an Apple Watch. In this article, we will delve into the world of saunas and answer the question – Is Sauna A Workout On Apple Watch?

The Science Behind Saunas

A sauna is a room or small house designed for heat sessions and has been used for centuries by various cultures as a form of relaxation and healing. Typically, it consists of heated rocks or coals that radiate heat and hot air, raising the temperature in a controlled environment.

When the body is exposed to high temperatures through steam, hot air or infrared heat, it responds by increasing blood flow to the skin’s surface allowing sweat glands to release sweat. As sweat evaporates from your skin, you will experience a cooling effect that reduces your body’s core temperature.

Studies have shown that regular sauna use can help in reducing stress levels, improving cardiovascular health, boosting immunity, and even promoting weight loss by increasing metabolic rate.

Sauna vs Exercise

Many people think that sitting in a sauna is similar to doing an intense workout session at the gym. While both may make you break into a sweat, it’s important to understand that they are not equivalent.

Firstly, saunas do not require physical exertion like exercising does. Sitting in a sauna may increase your heart rate marginally but not enough to be considered as exercise.

Secondly, while sweating helps with detoxifying the body through expelling toxins from the pores; it does not replace exercise when it comes to burning calories or building muscle strength and endurance. Exercise involves movement which uses energy (calories) while sauna use does not burn any calories, apart from the ones released through sweat.

Using the Apple Watch In A Sauna

Apple Watch is a great fitness tracker that can monitor your heart rate and track your workouts. However, it’s not advised to wear it in a sauna. The heat and steam from the sauna can damage the watch’s internal components and affect its accuracy in tracking your heart rate.

If you still want to use the Apple Watch while in a sauna, there are ways to protect it. You can opt for specialized watch bands that are resistant to high temperatures or simply wrap a towel around your wrist before wearing the watch. It’s also recommended to turn off any fitness tracking features while in the sauna to avoid damage.

Alternative Options To Track Sauna Sessions

If you’re looking for ways to track your sauna sessions without damaging your Apple Watch, there are other options available.

One option is using a waterproof fitness tracker that you can wear while in the sauna. These devices are designed to withstand high temperatures and moisture, making them ideal for sauna sessions. They also have features such as heart rate monitoring and calorie tracking, giving you accurate data about your session.

Another option is using smartphone apps that track sauna sessions by setting timers for desired temperature and humidity levels. These apps also provide health benefits based on individualized preferences such as reducing stress or aiding weight loss.

In conclusion, sitting in a sauna cannot be considered as a workout on an Apple Watch as it does not involve any physical activity or exertion. However, regular use of saunas has numerous proven health benefits that complement exercise routines. When using technology like an Apple Watch, it’s important to take precautions while enjoying sauna therapy. Using alternative options like waterproof fitness trackers or smartphone apps can help accurately track your session without putting your device at risk. Remember to hydrate before, during, and after a sauna session to reap its full benefits.

Why Sauna Sessions Should Be Considered A Workout On Apple Watch

When it comes to achieving a healthier lifestyle, incorporating regular exercise into our daily routines is crucial. From traditional gym workouts to outdoor activities, there are numerous ways one can get their heart pumping and body moving. However, one often overlooked form of exercise is sauna sessions. Many people view saunas as a means for relaxation and not as a workout option. But the truth is, saunas can provide a great workout, especially when combined with an Apple Watch.

The Benefits Of Incorporating Sauna Into Your Fitness Routine

First off, let’s talk about the obvious benefits of regular sauna use. Not only does it promote relaxation and stress relief, but it also has numerous physical health benefits. Sitting in a sauna causes your body to release endorphins, which are hormones that make you feel good and reduce pain. This can help with muscle soreness after workouts or even chronic pains such as arthritis. Additionally, sauna sessions can improve cardiovascular health by increasing blood flow and stimulating the release of nitric oxide, a chemical that helps relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure.

But how do all these benefits make sauna sessions equivalent to a workout? Well, believe it or not, sitting in a sauna for just 20 minutes can burn up to 500 calories! That’s equivalent to going for an hour-long run or taking an intense Zumba class at the gym. And unlike traditional workouts that leave you feeling tired and sweaty, sauna sessions leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

Another key benefit of incorporating saunas into your fitness routine is its ability to aid in muscle recovery. After pushing yourself in a tough workout session, your muscles need time to heal and recover. Sitting in a sauna will increase blood flow to your muscles which helps eliminate waste products that build up during exercise and provides essential nutrients for healing and repair. This can result in faster muscle recovery, allowing you to get back to your workouts sooner.

Why Apple Watch Is The Perfect Companion For Sauna Workouts

Now, let’s talk about how Apple Watch can elevate your sauna workouts. One of the most notable features of Apple Watch is its heart rate tracking technology. By wearing the watch during a sauna session, you can accurately monitor your heart rate and see how it changes throughout the session. This allows you to track how many calories you are burning and how intense your workout is.

Additionally, with the help of various fitness apps available on the Apple Watch, such as MyFitnessPal or HealthFit, you can track your sauna sessions and store the data for future reference. This allows you to keep track of your progress over time and make adjustments to your sauna routine as needed.

Apple Watch also has a feature called “Workout Detection” which automatically detects when you are starting an exercise activity. By enabling this feature before entering a sauna, your watch will start tracking your workout automatically without any manual input from you. This makes it even easier to incorporate saunas into your fitness routine without having to remember to manually start a workout on your watch.

Tips For Getting The Most Out Of Your Sauna Workouts With Apple Watch

If you’re ready to add saunas into your fitness routine with the help of an Apple Watch, there are a few things to keep in mind for maximum benefits. Firstly, always make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before and after a sauna session. Sitting in high temperatures for an extended period can cause dehydration, so it’s crucial to replenish lost fluids.

Secondly, be mindful of any potential health risks and consult with your doctor before starting regular sauna sessions. People with certain health conditions or taking specific medications may not be suitable for saunas.

Lastly, make sure to use a sauna properly and take breaks when needed. Saunas can be intense, and it’s important to listen to your body and exit the sauna if you start feeling lightheaded or dizzy. You can also use the Apple Watch’s heart rate tracking feature to ensure you’re not pushing yourself too hard.

In conclusion, saunas may not seem like a traditional workout option, but with the numerous benefits they offer combined with the advanced technology of Apple Watch, they should definitely be considered a valuable addition to your fitness routine. Not only do saunas provide a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, but they also promote physical health benefits such as calorie burning, muscle recovery, and improved cardiovascular health. So next time you’re looking for a new way to incorporate some movement into your day, don’t overlook the power of sauna sessions with an Apple Watch by your side.

1) How can I track my sauna session as a workout on Apple Watch?
Answer: To track your sauna session as a workout, you can use the “Other” workout option on your Apple Watch and manually enter the duration and intensity. Alternatively, you can download a third-party sauna workout app from the App Store for more accurate tracking.

2) Is sauna considered a legitimate workout on Apple Watch?
Answer: While it may not be as intense as other workouts, saunas do have health benefits such as improving circulation and promoting relaxation. As long as you are breaking a sweat and increasing your heart rate, it can be considered a legitimate workout.

3) Can I view my heart rate data during a sauna session on my Apple Watch?
Answer: Yes, you can view your heart rate data by using the “Heart Rate” complication or by swiping up on the watch face during your sauna session. This will allow you to monitor your heart rate and see how it changes throughout the session.

4) What are the limitations of using Apple Watch to track a sauna workout?
Answer: The main limitation is that the Apple Watch is not water-resistant enough to be worn in extreme heat or high moisture environments. Therefore, it is recommended to manually input data or use a third-party app instead of wearing the watch inside the actual sauna.

5) Can I earn exercise credit for completing a sauna session on my Apple Watch?
Answer: While saunas do not fall under any specific exercise category, you can still earn exercise credit for completing a 20-minute or longer session with moderate intensity. However, this may vary depending on individual heart rate and activity levels.

6) Does tracking my sauna sessions as workouts affect my Activity rings on my Apple Watch?
Answer: Yes, tracking your sauna sessions as workouts will count towards your Move and Exercise rings on your Apple Watch, as long as you meet the required duration and intensity. This can help you reach or maintain your daily activity goals.

In conclusion, the question of whether sauna is a workout on Apple Watch has been widely debated. While there are some aspects that suggest it could be considered a workout, such as an elevated heart rate and potential calorie burn, the lack of physical exertion and targeted muscle engagement cast doubt on its classification as a true workout. Additionally, the limited data tracking capabilities and potential risks associated with saunas raise concerns about its effectiveness as a fitness tool.

However, beyond its fitness benefits (or lack thereof), saunas have been shown to have numerous health benefits such as improved cardiovascular health, stress relief, and detoxification. These benefits can contribute to an overall healthier lifestyle that aligns with Apple Watch’s overall goal of promoting wellness and wellbeing. As with any fitness routine or activity, it is important to personalize and listen to your body’s signals when incorporating sauna use into your routine.

In conclusion, whether sauna can be considered a workout on Apple Watch may be up for debate. But what is undeniable is the potential for incorporating it into a well-rounded fitness journey for both physical and mental wellbeing. As we continue to navigate the ever-evolving world of technology and wellness, it is important to remember to prioritize our individual health goals and embrace methods that work best for our bodies and lifestyles. Ultimately

Author Profile

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Jeff Duncan
Jeff Duncan, the owner and Head Coach of CrossFit Pearl District, is dedicated to fostering a supportive and effective training environment.

With a strong belief in the principles of movement mechanics, consistency, and intensity, Jeff has cultivated a community that thrives on continuous improvement and mutual support.

From 2024, Jeff Duncan has expanded his passion for CrossFit beyond coaching by writing an informative blog dedicated to the CrossFit niche. His blog features a variety of content aimed at providing valuable information and insights to the CrossFit community.

Jeff’s posts cover a wide range of topics including training techniques, nutrition advice, workout routines, and answers to common queries within the niche. This transition to blogging allows Jeff to reach a broader audience, sharing his expertise and helping individuals at all levels of their fitness journey.