3 benefits of infrared saunas in athletic performance and recovery: Esteban Ocon’s routine with Clearlight®

When it comes to athletic success, the most high-performing individuals know that recovery is just as important as training. For elite athletes like Formula 1 winner Esteban Ocon, the ability to reset both body and mind is essential for staying sharp. On and off the track.

Among the high-profile names turning to infrared saunas for recovery is Ocon himself, who recently shared his personal wellness approach and sauna routine with his audience. In a post to his 2.5 million Instagram followers, Esteban revealed his go-to wellness tool: a Clearlight® Sanctuary Full Spectrum Sauna.

“It’s time where I can be thinking about something else and relax whilst also experiencing the benefits at the same time.” - Esteban Ocon via Instagram.

How exactly infrared saunas enhance athletic performance? 

More athletes across Europe are discovering the benefits of sauna for athletes, especially infrared sauna protocols for recovery. So how do they help?

Unlike traditional saunas that heat the air, infrared radiation directly warms the body, creating a deeper heat penetration into muscle tissue. This method supports:

• Relief from muscle fatigue.

• Improved muscle recovery after workout.

• Greater sense of relaxation and focus.

• Better sleep quality, which is crucial for next-day performance.
  
  

As a result, infrared sauna protocols for athletes are becoming a common part of strength and endurance recovery routines in professional sports.

Top 3 benefits of infrared saunas after intense training

If you're wondering what the top sauna benefits for athletes are, Esteban’s routine highlights three core advantages. 

1. Recovery

After high-intensity sessions or races, Ocon uses his Clearlight® Sanctuary infrared sauna to support workout recovery and reduce tension. While he doesn’t speak in technical terms, his feedback echoes what many athletes experience: less muscle soreness, faster recovery, and the ability to return to form more consistently.

2. Relaxation and wellbeing

Infrared heat supports more than physical performance. The warmth from a Clearlight® sauna session can ease the nervous system and enhance mental clarity, making it easier to disconnect after high-pressure moments.

3. Rest time with real benefits

Esteban’s sauna time isn’t just rest - it’s strategic. As he puts it, it’s a rare opportunity to unwind and feel better at the same time. His routine perfectly represents how infrared sauna benefits for athletes go beyond the physical—they support balance, routine, and overall well being.

Esteban Ocon’s Clearlight® infrared sauna routine for peak performance

Ocon’s sauna of choice? The Clearlight® Sanctuary 2-Person Full Spectrum Sauna, crafted with FSC-certified Okoume wood and designed for superior heat efficiency and user comfort.

Ideal for individual use or with a partner, the 2-Person Sanctuary model is compact yet spacious enough for stretching, breathing exercises, and mindfulness post-training. Its key features include:

• True Wave® Full Spectrum and Far Infrared Heaters.

• Chromotherapy lights with 12 colour options.

• Bluetooth audio and stereo speakers.

• Smartphone and digital touchpad control.

• Built-in ergonomic backrest and solid wood bench.

The sauna’s modern design and smart features make it a seamless fit in home gyms, performance studios, or any dedicated wellness space—perfect for athletes like Esteban who need recovery that supports their lifestyle.

Whether used after a race or a strength session, Ocon’s infrared sauna routine allows him to step away from the intensity of his sport while still experiencing the benefits of consistent sauna use for muscle recovery.

Bring performance recovery into your routine

Esteban Ocon isn’t alone—more professional athletes and wellness leaders are embracing the benefits of sauna for athletes, and for good reason. Infrared sauna sessions offer a practical, low-effort way to support workout recovery, encourage rest, and boost physical readiness.

If you’re ready to incorporate this balance into your home or training space, Clearlight® Infrared Saunas are the perfect place to begin.

Explore the full range of our full spectrum infrared saunas to discover how they can be integrated into your recovery plan.