A session in the steam room is great for athletes, or those who have engaged in some sort of physical labour or exercise. Following strain, the muscles suffer from a type of soreness known as DOMS, which causes pains in the body. The heat in the steam room can penetrate the tissues in the muscles and thus ease the pain in the muscles. This gives the body a sense of comfort. A visit to the steam room is also a good idea before a workout, the heat will relax your joints, thus making them more flexible. This is a form of warming up, which reduces the risk of injury during sports.