How are saunas/steam rooms best used?

[JohnGafnea]

What's the difference, effect wise, between the two?
When should they be used? Post-workout, off days, or other?
How long should you stay in one?

Thanks.

[WiNgS]

Originally posted by JohnGafnea
What's the difference, effect wise, between the two?
When should they be used? Post-workout, off days, or other?
How long should you stay in one?

Thanks.

i have a sauna after my leg training to help relax the muscles.... i would also believe that it would be good for pre contest to get rid off any water so your skin stretches tighter over the muscles/shrink wrapping

[JohnGafnea]

Is it best to wash off (or at least [non-chlorine] water off) after you get out and are all sweaty?

[MadChild]

Originally posted by JohnGafnea
Is it best to wash off (or at least [non-chlorine] water off) after you get out and are all sweaty?

I would assume so. I also notice that after swimming if you go in the steam room or sauna your skin smells less like chlorine than if you had just had a shower. I think you should have a cold shower after to close the pores, I wouldn't want to walk around all sweaty in my clothes.