INFRARED SAUNA VS ROCK SAUNA
A simple guide to understanding the difference and choosing the right style for your body
If you have ever wondered whether you should book an infrared sauna or a traditional rock sauna, you are not alone. Both offer powerful health benefits, but they work in very different ways. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right option for your goals, your comfort level and your recovery routine.
We are thrilled to offer both options at Iremia. Read on to find out the difference between the two or go ahead and book your session in here.
Which sauna is better for health and recovery
Both styles support circulation, detoxification and relaxation, but they shine in different areas.
Traditional Rock Saunas are ideal for people who enjoy intense heat, want a strong sweat response and love the classic sauna experience
Infrared Saunas are ideal for people who prefer a gentler temperature, want deeper muscle relief or are looking for a relaxing recovery session that feels soothing rather than overwhelming
How a Traditional Rock Sauna works
A traditional rock sauna heats the air around you. The rock heater warms the room to a high temperature which then warms your body from the outside in. This creates the classic hot sauna experience that many people know and love. Temperatures are usually higher and the heat feels more intense and enveloping. This style encourages deep sweating and is great for improving circulation and helping the body unwind after a stressful day or a heavy training session.
At Iremia, the Traditional Rock Sauna is located inside the Recovery Room. This means you can enjoy the sauna along with access to the magnesium pool and cold plunge, creating a complete hot and cold circuit.
How an Infrared Sauna works
Infrared uses light waves that heat your body directly rather than heating the air first. This creates a gentle and more comfortable warmth that penetrates deeper into the muscles. The temperature in an infrared sauna is lower than a traditional rock sauna which makes it easier for beginners or for anyone who finds high heat uncomfortable.
The infrared sauna at Iremia is completely private. It is the perfect option if you want time alone to relax, reset and enjoy a calm moment of warmth without any interruptions.
Which one should you choose at Iremia
It comes down to how you want to feel and the type of experience you are craving on the day.
Choose the Traditional Rock Sauna if you want:
Access to the full Recovery Room including the magnesium pool and cold plunge
A classic sauna experience with high heat
A strong sweat session
A hot and cold recovery circuit
A shared environment that feels social and energising
Choose the Infrared Sauna if you want:
A private, peaceful session to yourself
A gentler temperature that still reaches deep into the muscles
A calming, restorative experience
A great option for beginners or anyone sensitive to heat
A supportive recovery session that feels soothing rather than intense
Both saunas can be part of a weekly routine and many guests enjoy alternating between the two. The most important thing is choosing the option that helps your body feel restored, balanced and ready for whatever comes next.