Sports saunas, now a common service in many facilities, had a discreet arrival in Spain starting in the second half of the 20th century. Initially linked to sports medicine and athlete performance enhancement, their introduction was driven by innovative professionals. Figures like Dr. Juan Martínez Muley in Almería were pioneers in their use for sports purposes, adapting European methods to the growing consolidation of sports medicine in the country.
During the 1970s and 1980s, the sauna gradually became integrated into gyms and sports centers, evolving from an exclusive resource for elite athletes to a regular complement for amateurs. Those early Madrid gyms presented almost quaint scenes, where the sauna served as a space for socializing and conversation, in addition to its therapeutic benefits.
In towns like Majadahonda, the growth of sports facilities has gone hand in hand with wellness services. Physiologically, the sauna improves muscle recovery through vasodilation, facilitating toxin elimination and reducing fatigue. Its relaxing effect alleviates tension and helps prevent stiffness, being particularly useful after intense physical exertion.
Furthermore, the sauna positively influences the cardiovascular system, increasing heart rate similarly to moderate exercise. However, its value extends beyond the physical, providing a general sense of well-being and a space for calm and disconnection highly valued in today's daily life. Many users in Majadahonda consider it an essential part of their exercise routine.
Nevertheless, its use requires caution to prevent accidents. Recently, a 66-year-old man died from cardiac arrest in the sauna of a gym in Majadahonda. Another incident involved the former mayor of Boadilla, who contracted an infection in a sauna in Majadahonda and required hospitalization. It is crucial to respect staying times, remain hydrated, and avoid use in conditions of extreme exhaustion or pre-existing medical issues, in addition to ensuring adequate hygiene.
The sports sauna in Spain has evolved from being a novelty to being fully integrated into the culture of wellness and exercise. Today, it is an accessible resource that combines tradition and modernity, demonstrating its utility for both physical performance and personal balance.
