Key idea
Breathing is one of the most often overlooked factors in sports performance. During intense exertion the breathing rate can increase from 12–16 breaths per minute to as much as 40–60, and the volume of inhaled air can rise from the resting 6–8 liters to 100–150 liters per minute. If your airways are not functioning optimally, it directly affects your performance.
During intense exertion the breathing rate can rise from 12–16 breaths per minute to as much as 40–60, and the volume of inhaled air can increase from the resting 6–8 liters to 100–150 liters per minute.
If your airways are not functioning optimally – whether due to mild mucosal swelling, mucus buildup or an allergic reaction – this directly impacts your performance. Less oxygen reaches the muscles, you fatigue sooner, and your recovery is slower.
Effects of salt therapy for athletes
Salt therapy can support athletes' breathing and recovery through several mechanisms:
The inhaled microscopic salt particles (2–5 microns) penetrate deep into the airways, where by osmotic action they thin the mucus and reduce mucosal swelling. The result: freer breathing, better airflow and more efficient oxygen uptake.
Between 10–50% of athletes experience exercise-induced airway symptoms – wheeze, cough, chest tightness during or after training. This is particularly common in cold, dry air (winter sports, running) or during periods of high pollen exposure.
The 2017 Israeli randomized study showed that salt therapy reduces bronchial hyperresponsiveness, which is exactly the mechanism behind exercise-induced symptoms.1
Post-exercise recovery is crucial for progress. Nighttime use of salt therapy can help relax the respiratory muscles, promote deeper, more restorative sleep and support regeneration of the airway mucosa.
Scientific background
Although research specifically on athletes and salt therapy is still limited, studies on general airway effects are relevant for athletes as well.
2021 – Comprehensive literature review
The 2021 comprehensive literature review analyzed 18 studies and found that halotherapy favorably affects respiratory function parameters, including FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in one second) and PEF (peak expiratory flow). These measures are directly related to sports performance.2
2017 – Israeli randomized study
The 2017 Israeli study showed that salt therapy reduces bronchial hyperresponsiveness in children with asthma. This is directly relevant to exercise-induced airway symptoms, which are a common problem among athletes.1
2012 – Russian preventive study
A 2012 Russian study examining halotherapy in schoolchildren investigated its preventive effect and found that regular salt therapy reduced the incidence of respiratory illnesses. This is relevant for athletes too, since a cold can set back training plans for weeks.3
When to use it as an athlete?
Pre-season preparation
Start regular salt therapy 2–4 weeks before the training season begins. This helps “prepare” the airways for increased load.
During allergy season
If you suffer from seasonal allergies, salt therapy can be especially useful in the spring–summer months. It can help keep the airways clear and reduce allergic symptoms that would impair performance.
For winter sports
Cold, dry air is particularly taxing on the airways. Skiers, snowboarders and winter runners may benefit from salt therapy to counteract the irritating effects of cold air.
Post-workout recovery
Nighttime salt therapy supports airway recovery during sleep, when the body is actively rebuilding itself.
During a cold
If you feel the first signs of a cold, salt therapy may help you recover faster and return to training sooner.
Home use with the SaltDome device
The SaltDome ultrasonic salt therapy device is ideal for athletes because:
- Designed for nighttime use – it runs while you sleep and doesn’t take time away from training
- Provides continuous effect – 6–8 hours of treatment each night
- Produces an optimal particle size – 2–5 micron particles that reach deep into the airways
- Operates quietly – it won’t disturb sleep, which is key to recovery
Recommended use for athletes
- Base season: every night or every other night
- During intense training periods: every night
- During allergy season: every night, starting 2 weeks before the season
- When you have a cold: every night + 1–2 hours during the day
Before you start treatment
When NOT to use it?
- Active respiratory infection in the febrile phase – Delay treatment until the fever has subsided.
- Severe, untreated asthma – Medical consultation is required first, and keep your rescue inhaler close at hand.
- Known hypersensitivity to salt aerosol – Rare, but allergic reactions are possible.
What to pay attention to as an athlete?
Important information
Hydration: Salt can have a mild drying effect. As an athlete, pay attention to adequate fluid intake.
Gradual approach: Start with lower intensity and monitor how your body reacts.
Complementary method: Salt therapy is a complementary method that supports but does not replace breathing exercises and conditioning.
If you have asthma: If you have asthma and exercise, always consult your doctor and keep your rescue inhaler close at hand.
Possible side effects
Salt therapy is generally well tolerated. Possible effects include:
- Temporary increase in coughing – a sign of mucus mobilization
- Mild throat or nasal irritation during the first sessions
- Increased thirst
These symptoms usually resolve after 1–2 sessions. If they persist or are severe, stop treatment and consult your doctor.
Summary – Quick overview
A guide to applying salt therapy for athletes – focusing on breathing optimization, recovery and performance support.
Amateur and competitive athletes, runners, cyclists, winter sports enthusiasts, and athletes with allergies or asthma.
Salt therapy can help optimize breathing, prevent exercise-induced airway symptoms and support recovery. Nighttime use doesn’t take time away from training yet provides continuous support.
Frequently asked questions
Salt therapy is primarily recommended for regular, nighttime use. There is not enough research on using it immediately before training.
Not directly, but by optimizing airway capacity it can indirectly support acclimatization to altitude.
Yes, but consult your doctor and keep your rescue inhaler handy. Salt therapy is a complementary method and does not replace asthma medications.
Most athletes notice changes in their breathing after 2–4 weeks of regular use.
Related articles
Sources
- Bar-Yoseph R., et al. (2017). Halotherapy as asthma treatment in children: A randomized, controlled, prospective pilot study. Pediatric Pulmonology, 52(5):580-587. PubMed: 27723955
- Crișan-Dabija R., et al. (2021). Halotherapy—An Ancient Natural Ally in the Management of Asthma: A Comprehensive Review. Healthcare, 9(11):1604. PubMed: 34828649
- Khan MA., et al. (2012). The use of halotherapy for the health improvement in children at institutions of general education. Voprosy Kurortologii, Fizioterapii i Lechebnoi Fizicheskoi Kultury, 89(5):31-35. PubMed: 22908472
