Adding a sauna to a gym, spa, or wellness center is a strategic investment that enhances customer satisfaction, promotes health benefits, and increases business revenue. Whether you're looking to offer post-workout recovery in a gym, relaxation in a spa, or holistic wellness services, the right sauna can significantly boost your facility's appeal.
This guide will help you select the best commercial sauna based on durability, heating technology, and customer experience.
Why Install a Sauna in a Gym, Spa, or Wellness Center?
For Gyms
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Speeds Up Recovery – Reduces muscle soreness and inflammation post-exercise.
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Enhances Athletic Performance – Regular sauna use can improve circulation and endurance.
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Increases Membership Value – Offering a sauna can help attract and retain members.
For Spas & Wellness Centers
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Promotes Relaxation & Stress Relief – Encourages deep relaxation and mental clarity.
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Supports Detoxification & Skin Health – Sweating in a sauna helps flush out toxins and rejuvenates skin.
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Drives Customer Retention – Providing a sauna as part of wellness packages keeps clients coming back.
💡 Want to calculate the ROI of adding a sauna to your business? Use our Commercial Sauna ROI Calculator to see how much revenue a sauna can generate for your facility.
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Best Sauna Types for Commercial Use
Traditional Saunas (Electric or Wood-Burning)
Traditional saunas heat the air using an electric sauna heater, reaching temperatures of 160°F–194°F. These saunas provide an intense sweating experience, making them ideal for gym recovery areas and spa relaxation zones.
✅ Best for: High-traffic commercial spaces requiring a classic sauna experience.
✅ Recommended Option: Traditional Saunas
✅ Commercial-Grade Heater: Commercial Sauna Heaters
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Infrared Saunas
Infrared saunas use infrared panels to directly heat the body, allowing for a lower-temperature experience (120°F–170°F) while still delivering deep detoxification and relaxation benefits. These saunas are energy-efficient, easy to install, and require minimal maintenance, making them ideal for spas and wellness centers.
✅ Best for: Wellness centers and spas focused on relaxation, skin health, and holistic therapy.
✅ Recommended Option: Finnmark Infrared Saunas
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Hybrid Infrared + Traditional Saunas
For businesses looking to offer the most versatile sauna experience, hybrid saunas combine traditional heat with infrared therapy and red light therapy. These saunas provide a comprehensive health and recovery solution for gyms, spas, and wellness centers.
Finnmark Designs – The Best Hybrid Sauna for Commercial Use
A top-tier choice for commercial hybrid saunas is Finnmark Designs. Their commercial models feature:
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High-powered electric heaters for a traditional sauna experience.
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Full-spectrum infrared panels for deep tissue detoxification.
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Red light therapy to enhance cellular function and skin rejuvenation.
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Zero EMF & Non-toxic materials for a safe and premium sauna environment.
For the best commercial hybrid sauna, check out Finnmark Designs Hybrid Saunas.
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ADA-Compliant Saunas
For spas, wellness centers, and gyms that need to meet accessibility standards, ADA-compliant saunas are designed with:
- Wider doorways for wheelchair accessibility
- Lower bench heights for easy transfer
- Spacious interiors for mobility accommodations
✅ Best for: Facilities required to meet ADA guidelines and ensure inclusivity.
✅ Recommended Option: ADA-Compliant Saunas
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Key Factors When Choosing a Commercial Sauna
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Capacity & Size
- Select a 6-person or larger sauna to accommodate multiple users and prevent wait times.
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Durability & Materials
- Look for saunas made from Cedar, Hemlock, or Thermo-Aspen, which resist high heat and moisture damage.
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Heating System
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Electric heaters are the most reliable and low-maintenance option for commercial use.
- Choose from Commercial Sauna Heaters for maximum efficiency.
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Energy Efficiency & Maintenance
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Infrared saunas consume less power than traditional saunas, lowering operating costs.
- Choose saunas with stainless steel heating elements and low-maintenance designs to reduce upkeep.
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Placement & Ventilation
- Ensure the sauna is positioned in a well-ventilated, easily accessible area.
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How to Maximize Sauna Benefits for Your Business
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Offer Sauna Memberships – Create premium memberships that include sauna access.
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Bundle with Services – Pair sauna use with spa treatments, massage therapy, or post-workout recovery plans.
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Promote Contrast Therapy – Encourage alternating between sauna use and cold plunges for enhanced recovery.
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Educate Members & Clients – Provide information on sauna benefits to increase usage and engagement.
Final Thoughts
Installing a high-quality sauna in your gym, spa, or wellness center enhances customer experience, increases business revenue, and promotes health benefits. Whether you choose a traditional, infrared, or hybrid sauna, selecting a commercial-grade option ensures long-term success.
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