How to Set Up an Infrared Sauna in Your Gym?

For a lot of your members, having access to recovery tools like infrared saunas can be the difference between them joining your gym or going somewhere else. Big names like Equinox, Lifetime Fitness, and Crunch have already invested in infrared saunas.

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That’s why now is the perfect time to act. Adding an infrared sauna is a strategic business move that can attract new members who value wellness and recovery, all the while retaining current members by giving them an elevated post-workout experience.

In this blog, we’ll show you exactly how to set up an infrared sauna in your gym from scratch, so you can tap into this growing trend, satisfy member demand, and turn it into a membership magnet and profit driver. You’ll learn:

• Planning & Budgeting: How to pick the right space, plan your budget, and understand the potential ROI.
• Choosing the Right Sauna Equipment: Key features to look for, types of infrared saunas, and trusted brands.
• Installation, Safety & Maintenance: Step-by-step guidance on setup, keeping your sauna safe, and maintaining it for long-term use.
• Marketing & Member Engagement: How to promote your recovery offerings, attract new members, and turn it into a revenue-driving, retention-boosting amenity.

Let’s get started.

Getting Started: Plan & Budget for Your Infrared Sauna

Before you even think about buying a infrared sauna for gym, the first step is planning where it will go and how much it will cost. A well-thought-out plan saves you headaches later and ensures your sauna fits your gym and your members’ needs.

1. Choosing the Right Space:

• Pick a location that is quiet, private, and easily accessible for members. Many gyms place saunas near locker rooms or recovery areas.
• Make sure there’s enough room for the sauna unit, safe electrical connections, and ventilation. Even a small 1–2 person sauna needs proper clearance around it.
• Consider the look and feel: a clean, inviting space encourages members to use it regularly.

2. Budgeting Wisely:

• Upfront costs include the sauna unit, any construction or electrical work, insulation, and optional extras like chromotherapy lights or sound systems.
• Ongoing costs include electricity, maintenance, and cleaning supplies. Infrared saunas are energy-efficient, but you still want to factor in these running costs. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:

Category	Details	Estimated Cost Range
Sauna Unit	Single/dual-person or larger units; basic vs. premium features	$1,500 – $7,000+
Installation & Electrical	Professional setup, wiring, ventilation, insulation	$500 – $2,500
Optional Enhancements	Chromotherapy lights, sound system, digital controls	$200 – $1,000
Maintenance & Cleaning	Cleaning supplies, replacement bulbs, filters	$100 – $300/year
Energy Costs	Electricity for operation	$50 – $150/month

• Think about ROI: a single sauna can pay for itself through additional membership sales, recovery packages, or small group programs.

3. Scaling Your Setup:

• Start with one unit if your space or budget is limited. You can always expand later as demand grows.
• Think about session scheduling or timed usage to maximize access without overcrowding.

How to Choose the Right Sauna Equipment?

Once you’ve figured out your space and budget, the next step is choosing the right sauna unit for your gym. The right features, size, and brand can make a huge difference, impacting member satisfaction, how often it’s used, and even your return on investment.

For starters, there are a few main types of infrared sauna for gym you should know about:

• Far-Infrared Saunas: Most common infrared sauna for gyms; they heat the body efficiently without making the air extremely hot. Great for muscle recovery and relaxation.
  
• Near-Infrared Saunas: Focus on skin and superficial tissue; often smaller and more affordable but less ideal for full-body recovery sessions.
  
• Full-Spectrum Infrared Saunas: Combine near, mid, and far-infrared; a premium option that gives a complete experience. Perfect if you want to market it as a luxury recovery amenity.

Consider your target members and your space. If most of your clients are serious athletes, a full-spectrum or far-infrared sauna may deliver the best recovery benefits.

Key Features to Look For

When comparing models of infrared sauna for gyms, focus on features that impact member experience, durability, and long-term ROI:

Feature	Why It Matters for Your Gym
Size & Capacity	Bigger units allow multiple members at once, maximizing usage and ROI. Small units are cheaper but may limit revenue potential.
Temperature Control	Easy-to-use controls let members personalize their session, improving satisfaction.
Wood Quality & Build	Durable wood (like cedar) lasts longer and resists warping—reduces maintenance costs.
Digital Displays & Timers	Helps members track their session and ensures safe usage; also looks modern and professional.
Optional Enhancements	Chromotherapy lights, Bluetooth speakers, and aromatherapy add a “premium” feel and allow higher package pricing.

Brands and Suppliers

Not all infrared sauna for gyms are created equal. Look for:

• Trusted brands with warranty and service support reduce downtime if a unit breaks and ensure your members have a reliable experience.
• Local suppliers or distributors who can provide installation guidance and replacement parts.
• Energy-efficient models—saunas that use less electricity lower operating costs and improve ROI.

Choosing the right fitness recovery equipment sets the foundation for a successful sauna program. When members love their sauna experience, they stay longer, come back more often, and are more likely to pay for premium offerings, making your investment pay off faster.

How to Install, Maintain, and Keep Your Sauna Safe?

Getting your infrared sauna up and running isn’t just about setting it in a corner and plugging it in. Proper installation, maintenance, and safety practices ensure your sauna is a safe, long-lasting, and revenue-generating asset for your gym.

Installation Tips

• Hire a licensed professional: Even small saunas need proper electrical connections. A certified electrician ensures safety and prevents costly mistakes.
• Check space requirements: Make sure there’s enough clearance around the unit for ventilation and easy cleaning. Typically, a 1–2 2-person sauna needs 4–6 feet of space in front and at least 1 foot on the sides.
• Flooring & ventilation: Place your sauna on a level, non-slip surface. Good ventilation prevents moisture buildup and keeps the room comfortable.
• Placement matters: Position the sauna close to locker rooms or recovery areas for convenience. Avoid high-traffic zones that can disrupt member experience.

Pro Tip: Some gyms create a small relaxation corner around the sauna with benches, plants, or soft lighting, this encourages members to use it more frequently.

Safety Guidelines

• Monitor temperature and session times: Infrared saunas typically operate between 110–140°F. Offer recommended session lengths of 15–30 minutes to avoid overheating.
• Clear instructions for members: Post easy-to-read guides on how to safely enter, exit, and use the sauna.
• Accessibility: Ensure the sauna is easy to enter and exit for members of all sizes and abilities.
• Regular checks: Inspect electrical connections, control panels, and wood panels weekly to prevent hazards before they happen.

Tip for gym owners: Consider adding a booking system for the sauna. This avoids overcrowding and ensures safety while giving members a more premium experience.

How to Market & Engage Members with Your Infrared Sauna

Installing an infrared sauna is only half the battle. To maximize its impact and ROI, you need to actively market it to members and make it a key part of your gym experience. A well-promoted sauna can attract new members, increase retention, and even generate extra revenue through recovery packages or premium memberships.

• Highlight Benefits: Emphasize recovery, stress relief, detoxification, and overall wellness in emails, posters, and social media. Share real member stories or testimonials to make the benefits tangible.
  
• Recovery Packages & Membership Add-Ons: Bundle sauna access with personal training sessions, group classes, or premium memberships. Timed or booked sessions increase value while managing usage efficiently.
  
• Events & Challenges: Host “Recovery Week,” post-workout sauna sessions, or small wellness challenges to encourage members to try it. Social sharing of these events also boosts visibility.
  
• Visuals & Signage: Place clear instructions and benefit highlights on-site and online to show members how to safely use and get the most from the sauna.

Conclusion

Your infrared sauna can do more than improve recovery; it can shape how members perceive your gym and influence their decisions to join, stay, and spend more. The smartest facilities don’t just install a sauna; they integrate it into programs, memberships, and marketing strategies that directly impact revenue.

Think strategically: create wellness bundles, recovery challenges, or post-workout routines that feature the sauna. Use member stories, social media posts, and email campaigns to highlight real benefits. When positioned this way, the sauna becomes both a service and a sales tool.

For more ideas on turning recovery into a full-scale member experience, check out our guide on How to Design the Ultimate Recovery Zone in Your Gym. It walks you through equipment, layout, and programming that keep members engaged, increase loyalty, and drive revenue.

FAQ: Infrared Sauna for Gyms