Saunas and Cold Plunges in Fitness Facilities: A Balanced Perspective from a Gym Owner.

Boutique gyms, including CrossFit gyms, are evolving beyond traditional fitness offerings to include wellness and recovery amenities. Integrating saunas and cold plunge pools can enhance the member experience, aligning with the growing emphasis on recovery. While these features require a substantial investment and ongoing maintenance, they can yield significant benefits regarding member retention and satisfaction.  It is important to look at all the costs associated with with these amenities, as well as the ongoing focus you will need to implement to be successful with this area of your business. 

1. Installation Costs
The cost of installing saunas and cold plunge pools varies significantly based on the type, size, and customization level.

Saunas:

Cold Plunge Pools:

2. Maintenance Requirements
Ongoing maintenance is essential to keep these amenities in optimal condition.

Saunas:

• Saunas require minimal maintenance, such as regular surface cleaning, checking heater elements, and ensuring proper ventilation. Replacing sauna stones and inspecting the sauna for wear are periodic tasks that when done contribute to their longevity.

Cold Plunge Pools:

• Maintenance is more intensive, involving regular water quality checks, filter cleaning, and chiller system upkeep. Water must be tested and treated frequently to maintain the appropriate pH and prevent bacterial growth. Depending on the system and use, water may need to be changed every few weeks to ensure hygiene.

3. Lifespan and Longevity

Saunas:

• With diligent care, saunas can last 15 to 25 years, depending on the quality of the materials and adherence to maintenance schedules.

Cold Plunge Pools: 

• The lifespan varies, but high-quality installations can endure many years if properly maintained. Specific lifespan data is less frequently reported, emphasizing the importance of consistent upkeep.

4. Return on Investment (ROI)
The ROI for saunas and cold plunge pools comes from their ability to attract and retain members.

• Member Appeal: Wellness-focused individuals are drawn to gyms offering comprehensive recovery options. Saunas and cold plunges add significant value, making membership more appealing and justifying higher fees.
  

• Competitive Differentiation: These amenities help boutique gyms stand out in a crowded market. The enhanced experience can increase member satisfaction, engagement, and long-term retention.

5. Operating Costs
While the initial investment is substantial, ongoing expenses include electricity, water usage, and routine maintenance.  These costs will vary depending on your location.

Saunas:

• Electricity: Infrared saunas are energy-efficient, using 1.5 to 3 kWh per session and costing $2.70 to $5.40 monthly with minimal use.  If your sauas get used a lot your costs will be significantly more. Traditional electric saunas consume more power, costing between $10.80 and $14.40 a month for minimal use.
  

• Maintenance: Cleaning supplies and minor upkeep cost $10–$20 monthly. Component replacements, like heater elements, can be managed by setting aside $5–$10 monthly.

Cold Plunge Pools:

• Chiller Operation: Energy costs for running chillers range from $18 to $28 monthly.
  

• Water and Treatment: Water treatment chemicals and filter maintenance cost $20–$30 monthly. Water replacement expenses vary between $10 and $20 while cleaning supplies are around $10–$15.

Total Monthly Costs: Infrared saunas cost $17–$35, traditional saunas cost $26–$44, for minimal use, and cold plunge pools cost $58–$93. These figures depend on usage and local utility rates, but efficient management can mitigate expenses.

Member Usage Trends
General data suggests that sauna and cold plunge usage needs to be more utilized. Around 15% of members use gym amenities weekly, while 18% never use them. Usage can be influenced by:

• Education: Informing members about the benefits increases usage.

• Accessibility: Convenient and well-maintained amenities attract more users.

• Demographics: Age, cultural factors, and fitness goals affect how frequently members use these amenities.

Membership Models and Pricing
Gyms have developed pricing structures that reflect the added value of wellness amenities. For example, a CrossFit gym may offer memberships starting at $240 per month, including group training and wellness facilities. With autopay, others provide unlimited access to cold plunges, saunas, and additional therapies for $85 per month.

Health Benefits and Engagement Strategies
Educating members on the health benefits is crucial. Saunas boost cardiovascular health and accelerate muscle recovery. Cold plunges reduce inflammation and speed up post-exercise recovery. Highlighting these advantages through workshops, informational materials, and staff consultations can increase member engagement.

Strategies for Engagement:

• Educational Programs: Offering workshops on the benefits and proper usage

• Incentive Programs: Reward regular users with loyalty points or discounts

• Feedback Mechanisms: Encourage member feedback to improve facilities

So, What is the Take Home Point? 
As a gym owner it is important to know all the costs involved with these options.  After installation the work is not done.  Education and constant promotion will be key to your recovery services being a valuable and valued part of your business. By carefully planning and educating members on their benefits, gyms can create a holistic, wellness-focused environment that stands out in the competitive fitness landscape.