As one of the most dominant figures in rugby league, Nathan Cleary understands that peak performance isn’t just about training hard—it’s about recovering smart.

The Penrith Panthers captain and four-time NRL premiership winner has fine-tuned his post-game and daily recovery rituals to ensure he remains at the top of his game. And one key addition to his recovery routine? A Clearlight® Sauna.

The Recovery Secret Behind an NRL Champion

Recently featured in Men’s Health and Body and Soul, Cleary shared how his sauna sessions have become a non-negotiable part of his wellness regimen. From muscle recovery to mental clarity, infrared sauna is helping him push his limits while minimizing soreness and fatigue.

Cleary told Body and Soul:

I’ll always have a sauna and a swim the day after a game. I really enjoy starting my day like that... A stint in my infrared sauna has me feeling super relaxed and undisturbed.

Beyond just relaxation, Cleary credits his Clearlight Sauna for enhancing his physical resilience. He revealed to Men’s Health that post-game, his go-to recovery method involves alternating between a sauna session and a cold plunge. This "contrast therapy" makes it easier for him to bounce back after intense matches.

Infrared: The Science Behind the Sweat

Cleary isn’t alone in his love for infrared saunas. Research has consistently highlighted the benefits of infrared therapy for athletes, including reduced muscle soreness, and faster recovery times. Unlike traditional saunas, Clearlight Saunas use full-spectrum infrared heat to warm the body from the inside out, providing deeper muscle penetration without the extreme heat of steam saunas.

From the Field to Your Home: Why Clearlight Stands Out

When it comes to recovery, Cleary opts for the best. Recently awarded the best home saunas of 2025, Clearlight Saunas are renowned for their advanced infrared technology, eco-certified materials, and lifetime warranty—offering the same professional-grade experience to athletes and wellness seekers alike.

According to Body and Soul, Clearlight has become a must-have among celebrities and athletes, with stars like Zac Efron and Gwyneth Paltrow also embracing the benefits of infrared therapy. In fact, the brand saw a 200% increase in sales at the end of 2024, a testament to the growing awareness around the power of sauna therapy.

Cleary himself has experienced firsthand how a Clearlight Sauna has revolutionized his recovery. “Even if I wasn’t an athlete, I would still want a sauna because of the way it makes me feel both mentally and physically,” he shared.

Elevate Your Own Recovery Routine

You don’t have to be a professional athlete to experience the benefits of infrared sauna therapy. Whether you’re looking to accelerate recovery, reduce stress, or improve overall wellness, a Clearlight Sauna brings luxury and performance into your home.

Join Nathan Cleary and thousands of others who have made infrared saunas a part of their daily routine. Discover Clearlight Saunas today.

As featured in Men’s Health and Body and Soul.

Let's TalkNot sure where to start?

Gain access to offers and get expert Sauna advice now.

Do you agree to be contacted by one of our Sauna Experts?

Latest Stories

View all

Should I Sauna in the Summer? Your Infrared Sauna Protocol for Warmer Months

Should I Sauna in the Summer? Your Infrared Sauna Protocol for Warmer Months

As temperatures begin to rise, many people ask “Should I sauna in the summer?” We explain how infrared sauna sessions can support recovery, circulation, skin health, and metabolism during warmer months, and the best protocol to follow.

Read more

Red Bull Clearlight Saunas Partnership Austria

Red Bull and Clearlight® Team Up to Redefine Athlete Recovery

Red Bull has partnered with Clearlight® saunas to integrate infrared therapy into its global facilities, first in Santa Monica, and now at the APC in Thalgau, Austria - the headquarters of Red Bull Performance.

Read more

5 Reasons to Sauna in Summer for Health and Recovery

5 Reasons to Sauna in Summer for Health and Recovery

If you’ve ever paused your sauna routine during warmer months, you might want to reconsider. Leading health experts and scientific studies alike are now championing the idea of year-round sauna use, even when the temperatures rise outside.

Read more