I am often asked why people can tolerate an infrared sauna easier than a traditional sauna. If you have tried both, then you will be able to notice the difference they have on your experience and your body. Yes, they will both make you sweat and thats ultimately the main point. However, being able to have an enjoyable experience will make implementing sauna sessions into your health and fitness routine a lot easier.
The main differences between an infrared sauna and a traditional sauna lie in the technology used for heating, the type of heat generated, and the overall user experience.
Here's a concise breakdown:
1. Heating Technology:
Traditional Sauna: Uses electric heaters, wood-burning stoves, or gas heaters to warm the air inside the sauna room. The air temperature in traditional saunas can become quite high, typically ranging from 160 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit (71 to 93 degrees Celsius).
Infrared Sauna: Utilizes infrared heaters that emit radiant heat. Instead of heating the air, these heaters directly warm the objects and people in the sauna. Infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures, usually between 120 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit (49 to 60 degrees Celsius).
2. Heat Distribution:
Traditional Sauna: Heats the air, leading to an overall rise in temperature within the sauna. The heat is distributed evenly throughout the space, creating a high-temperature environment.
Infrared Sauna: Provides a more targeted and penetrating heat. Infrared rays directly heat the body, promoting a deeper sweat at lower temperatures. The heat is absorbed by the body, creating a different experience compared to the more generalized heating of the air in traditional saunas.
3. User Experience:
Traditional Sauna: Offers a traditional sauna experience with high temperatures and the option to add steam by pouring water over sauna rocks. Some people enjoy the intense heat, while others may find it challenging.
Infrared Sauna: Generally considered more comfortable by individuals who may be sensitive to the high temperatures of traditional saunas. The lower temperature and direct heat absorption can create a more relaxed experience.
4. Detoxification and Health Benefits:
Traditional Sauna: Supporters argue that the intense sweating in traditional saunas can aid in detoxification and promote cardiovascular health, though the extent of these benefits is debated.
Infrared Sauna: Advocates claim that the deeper tissue penetration of infrared heat enhances detoxification and provides additional health benefits, such as improved circulation, reduced muscle soreness, and potential relief from certain skin conditions.
5. Installation and Energy Consumption:
Traditional Sauna: May require more time for installation and often needs special ventilation systems due to the higher temperatures. Energy consumption can be higher compared to infrared saunas.
Infrared Sauna: Generally easier to install, often coming in pre-assembled kits. They may require less energy to operate since they heat the body directly and the surrounding air less.
In summary, the choice between an infrared sauna and a traditional sauna often depends on personal preferences, tolerance for heat, and desired health benefits. Traditional saunas offer a classic sauna experience with high temperatures, while infrared saunas provide a more focused and comfortable heat.
