Unlike typical gyms where members sweat it out in a standard room or studio, HOTWORX is unique in its approach: all workouts take place in a large infrared sauna that can accommodate up to three people. Inside, infrared heat penetrates the skin at a deeper cellular level, helping to detoxify the body, enhance metabolism, and promote healing. “People will tell me they do hot yoga, but hot yoga is just heat—you’re not getting the therapeutic benefits of infrared heat penetrating your skin,” says Katrina George, owner of the HOTWORX locations in Bedford, NH and South Portland. “You’re expelling 200 to 300 times more toxins in an infrared sweat. Once you get all that junk out, your body rewards you with all sorts of amazing benefits.”
One of those benefits is a boost in metabolism even after your workout is complete. “As soon as you enter the sauna, before you even start working out, you’re already burning calories,” George says. “When you add in the movement aspect, it’s easy to see how beneficial infrared heat is. It cranks up your metabolism, so even if you’re doing a 15-minute workout, you’re still burning calories for an hour after that.” Another standout benefit of infrared heat is its ability to aid recovery. The anti-inflammatory effects are particularly beneficial for those dealing with muscle soreness, joint pain, or injuries. By promoting blood flow and collagen production, infrared heat helps the body recover faster and reduces swelling, making it a great option for anyone recovering from surgery or injury. Cross-training athletes, such as runners, CrossFit enthusiasts, and college and professional athletes often use infrared heat as a complementary recovery tool.
Beyond the physical benefits, infrared heat has a significant impact on mental health. For starters, it helps boost serotonin levels, which can improve mood and reduce stress. This is particularly important as Mainers head into the colder, darker months when seasonal affective disorder can affect many people. Many HOTWORX members report improvements in sleep quality—the calming effects of infrared heat, combined with the physical exertion from the workouts, help the body relax and prepare for restful sleep.
HOTWORX is designed with busy lifestyles in mind: the studio offers 24/7 access, meaning members can work out whenever it fits their schedule, and virtually instructed sessions range from 15 minutes to 40 minutes long. With an easy-to-use app for booking and managing sessions, there’s no need for rigid class times or long-term commitments. The intimate and flexible environment creates a supportive space where members can feel comfortable and get results. “I’m a busy working mom, so I love being able to book on the fly,” says George. “When I get into the sauna, I shut the door and tune the world out. As soon as my program starts, I have someone telling me what to do.”
"You’re expelling 200 to 300 times more toxins in an infrared sweat. Once you get all that junk out, your body rewards you with amazing benefits."