Whether in a fitness center or pool, you've probably used either a steam room or sauna at one time or another. If so, you probably found the heat to be relaxing, even invigorating. What you may not have realized is that although similar, each facility offers its own unique features and benefits.
History
Saunas and steam rooms have been used in various cultures for thousands of years. The reasons for their use have varied--from simple pleasure to medicinal to spiritual purposes. Among the best-known users of saunas and steam rooms were the ancient Romans. Their large, elaborate bath houses were the predecessors of the modern spas of today. Native Americans have for centuries used sauna-like sweat lodges for spiritual and physical cleansing. Saunas and steam have long been popular features of Turkish and Russian bath houses.
Appearance
Before entering a sauna or steam room, you can observe some obvious differences. The steam room is lined in tile, which resists moisture and provides an easy surface to clean. Steam rooms often include a shower, which can be used to cool off without leaving the facility. Saunas are lined in wood, which inefficiently conducts heat, and provides a cool surface for users.
Atmosphere
The most obvious contrast between the steam room and sauna is the air quality. As the name implies, the steam room uses hot water vapor to attain an atmosphere of 100 percent humidity. Steam is pumped into the room at regular intervals to maintain these conditions. The sauna, while also hot, maintains a dry atmosphere, the exact opposite of the steam room. The dry heat is attained with an electric heater that gives off no moisture.
Temperature
While the temperatures of the sauna and steam room often feel close, a difference of over 50 degrees is common. The sauna is often over 170 degrees Fahrenheit, while some experienced users can tolerate over 190 degrees. The steam room is significantly cooler, rarely reaching above 125 degrees Fahrenheit. The humidity of the steam room makes the air temperature seem much hotter than it is.
Benefits
Both the steam room and sauna relieve stress and relax tight muscles. The heat of both causes vasodilatation, a widening of blood vessels which improves circulation. The sauna, due to its arid atmosphere, causes profuse sweating, Athletes such as wrestlers and bodybuilders often use the sauna to lose water weight for competition. The humid steam room soothes airways and sinuses. People with lung conditions such as asthma often find relief in the steam room.
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