Your blood pressure rises during a sauna visit, just like your heart rate—and the increase mirrors that of a short, moderate workout. This comes from a recent study where researchers compared sauna use to cycling on an ergometer.
The team recruited 19 volunteers to examine sauna effects on the cardiovascular system. Participants underwent a 25-minute sauna session with continuous monitoring of blood pressure and heart rate. Both metrics rose sharply during the session, then dropped below baseline levels afterward.
In the comparison phase, volunteers rode a stationary bike at around 100 watts. Remarkably, blood pressure and heart rate peaked at identical levels in both the sauna and exercise conditions, underscoring the sauna's physical demands. Lead researcher notes: "Saunas suit anyone tolerating moderate exercise, but those with low blood pressure should take post-sauna care, as readings may dip below pre-session baselines."
Prior research supports these findings, highlighting long-term cardiovascular benefits akin to regular exercise. "Sauna sessions impose acute stress like workouts, with enduring positives," the study affirms. Note: Sauna sweating doesn't aid weight loss—lost fluids require rehydration, absent muscle activity.
