What's the difference in a "steam room" and a "sauna"?

@maezee (41997)
United States
January 8, 2010 4:27pm CST
Does anyone know the differences? I'm considering joining a gym but I would like to differentiate these two first. Which do you like better? Which do you find to be more.. relaxing or whatever? Does your gym offer a "steam room" or "sauna"? (Or both)? And what do you think the difference is?
1 response
• United States
8 Jan 10
A steam room is just that a room full of moist steam, which is nice, especially if you add a bit of menthol to clean the pores and clear out the sinus. A sauna is more of a dry heat and usually in a wooden room, which is very relaxing. I like them both but would use them for different reasons. If you can, I would look for a gym or workout place that had both, and a pool and whirlpool as well. There is nothing like going for a nice swim, which is great low impact exercise, then getting in the whirlpool for a bit, then off to the steam or sauna for a great experience....then a nice shower and go home to a salad and relaxing evening. Hope this helps....Best wishes in your search!
@maezee (41997)
• United States
8 Jan 10
Lifetime Fitness, then, I think had a "peppermint" steam room..When I was a member for all of 3 months. . I had never known what those are called! But the peppermint or whatever it was was so strong I couldn't be in it for more than about 2 minutes. . Thanks for clarifying it for me!