Repeated Sauna Use Boosts Heatwave Coping, Scientists Say 2026

Repeated sauna use may help people cope better in heatwaves, according to scientists studying heat adaptation. As summer temperatures soar, saunas are gaining popularity as a potential tool for improving heat tolerance, with experts urging caution but noting promising physiological benefits.

How Sauna Use Improves Heat Tolerance

Prof Jari Laukkanen, a cardiologist at the University of Eastern Finland, explains that repeated exposure to heat can trigger adaptations similar to those seen in athletes who train in hot conditions. These include earlier and more efficient sweating, improved skin blood flow, expansion of plasma volume, and reduced cardiovascular strain during subsequent heat exposure.

“Regular heat exposure may help the body regulate temperature more efficiently,” says Laukkanen. This passive heat training, through sauna bathing or hot water immersion, could be a practical strategy for preparing for heatwaves, especially as climate change makes extreme heat more frequent.

Physiological Adaptations from Heat Training

Dr Jessica Mee of the University of Worcester is recruiting participants to study whether regular hot water immersion improves heat response. Her research aims to quantify how passive heat exposure alters sweating efficiency and cardiovascular function, potentially offering a non-pharmacological way to enhance resilience.

While saunas are not a cure-all, they may complement other heat safety measures. However, experts warn that sauna use during extreme heat should be approached with care, especially for vulnerable individuals like the elderly or those with heart conditions.

Sauna Trends and Heatwave Alerts

The UK Health Security Agency has issued heat health alerts across England as the country experiences its fourth heatwave of the year. Western Europe saw its hottest June on record, making heat adaptation increasingly relevant. Community Sauna Baths, a not-for-profit with outdoor saunas and cold plunges, has seen bookings rebound as people seek relief from the heat.

“You get real relief out of it actually,” says Nicola Pegues, head of operations. Cycling between hot saunas and cold plunges can provide a sensation of cooling, but the long-term benefits lie in physiological adaptation.

Comparison: Passive vs. Active Heat Training

Both methods stimulate heat shock proteins and improve thermoregulation, but passive methods are more accessible for general populations. The key is gradual exposure to avoid overheating.

Key Takeaways

• Repeated sauna use can improve heat tolerance through physiological adaptations.
• Regular heat exposure may reduce cardiovascular strain during heatwaves.
• Saunas should be used with caution during extreme heat alerts, especially for at-risk groups.
• Cold plunges after saunas can provide immediate relief but are not a substitute for adaptation.
• More research is needed to establish optimal sauna protocols for heatwave preparedness.

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