Elevating the Sauna Experience: A Review of the HUUM DROP 9kW Electric Sauna Heater w/ UKU WiFi Control

When it comes to creating a sauna sanctuary, the right heater is more than just a functional necessity—it’s the heart of the entire experience. The HUUM DROP 9kW Electric Sauna Heater with the UKU WiFi Control and Classic Black Control Panel is not just a piece of equipment; it’s a transformative addition to any sauna space. Let me share why this heater has been a game-changer for our 300-cubic-foot sauna and how it’s elevated our wellness routine with its artistry, convenience, and advanced features.

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First Impressions: Design Meets Functionality

The HUUM DROP 9kW heater immediately captivates with its design. Inspired by the simplicity and elegance of a drop of water, this heater brings a touch of sophistication to our sauna. It’s not just functional; it’s a conversation piece. The sleek, rounded design seamlessly integrates into our space, complementing the natural wood tones and minimalistic aesthetic of the sauna. Its compact, wall-mounted structure optimizes space, making it perfect for a sauna like ours that’s cozy yet efficient.

The attention to detail is apparent—this is no ordinary heater. It’s a Red Dot Design Award winner for good reason. The stainless steel construction feels premium and ensures durability, while the sculptural appearance elevates the overall ambiance. It’s a perfect blend of form and function.

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Heat Like No Other: The Power of Stones

One of the standout features of the HUUM DROP 9kW is its ability to hold up to 122 pounds of sauna stones. This substantial stone capacity allows for long-lasting, soft, and gentle heat that fills the sauna evenly. Unlike metal-heavy heaters that can create harsh, dry heat, the DROP 9 focuses on stone-generated warmth. This design maximizes the release of negative ions, mimicking the traditional wood-burning sauna experience.

In our 300-cubic-foot sauna, the DROP 9 performs flawlessly. It heats the space efficiently while maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the session. The soft steam created by the stones is not just relaxing but also therapeutic, helping to ease muscle tension and promote deep relaxation after intense workouts or long days.

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Convenience at Your Fingertips: UKU WiFi Control

If there’s one feature that’s truly life-changing, it’s the UKU WiFi control system. With the ability to preheat our sauna remotely via the HUUM app, this heater has redefined convenience. Whether we’re wrapping up a workout at the gym, finishing errands, or just lounging on the couch, a few taps on our smartphone ensure the sauna is ready and waiting for us at the perfect temperature.

The app interface is intuitive and user-friendly. Setting the desired temperature, start and end times, and even checking the current temperature are all effortless. The notifications let us know exactly when the sauna is heated, eliminating guesswork and saving time. It’s like having a personal sauna concierge at our fingertips.

The UKU Classic Black control panel also deserves a shoutout. Mounted inside the sauna, it’s sleek, unobtrusive, and easy to use. Together, the app and control panel create a seamless experience, blending traditional sauna rituals with modern technology.

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Why It Works for Us: Tailored to Our Sauna

Our sauna is 300 cubic feet, which falls comfortably within the DROP 9’s recommended range of 282 to 530 cubic feet. The heater’s 9kW power output is more than sufficient, ensuring quick and efficient heating without overloading the space. Its compact dimensions (15.4”W x 13.2”D x 23.3”H) make it an ideal fit, leaving plenty of room for relaxation.

The wall-mounted design, complete with a heat reflector, keeps the heater safely positioned while maximizing floor space. Installation was straightforward, thanks to the clear and detailed manual. While we opted for professional installation to ensure compliance with electrical requirements, the process was smooth and hassle-free.

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Eco-Friendly and Efficient

Another aspect we appreciate is the heater’s eco-conscious design. By minimizing the use of metal and focusing on stone-generated heat, the DROP 9 is both efficient and environmentally friendly. The low energy consumption aligns with our efforts to create a sustainable home spa experience. Plus, the heater’s durability and high-quality materials mean it’s built to last, reducing waste over time.

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Enhancing Wellness and Lifestyle

The HUUM DROP 9 has become an integral part of our wellness routine. Its consistent and gentle heat helps us unwind, detoxify, and rejuvenate. After a challenging day or an intense training session, stepping into a perfectly heated sauna feels like a reward for both body and mind.

The remote-control capability has simplified our lives in ways we didn’t anticipate. It’s not just about convenience—it’s about making self-care more accessible. Knowing the sauna is ready when we need it removes barriers to relaxation and encourages us to use it more frequently.

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Why Buy from The Sauna Place in Cookeville, TN

If you’re considering the HUUM DROP 9kW heater, there’s no better place to purchase it than The Sauna Place in Cookeville, TN. Here’s why:

• Price Match Guarantee + 10% Back: The Sauna Place offers a price match guarantee, ensuring you always get the lowest price available on the same heater. On top of that, they provide 10% back, making your purchase even more rewarding.

• Unmatched Customer Service: In addition to the manufacturer’s customer service, The Sauna Place adds an extra layer of support. Whether you need troubleshooting assistance, installation guidance, or have general questions, their knowledgeable team is ready to help.

• Convenience and Reliability: With their competitive pricing and exceptional customer care, The Sauna Place ensures a seamless shopping experience. Plus, they’re just a call away at 931-369-2344 for any inquiries.

Visit their website to explore this heater and more: The Sauna Place. For direct product details and free shipping, check out HUUM DROP 9kW Sauna Heater.

Choosing The Sauna Place means investing not only in a premium product but also in unparalleled support and peace of mind.

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Safety and Peace of Mind

Safety is paramount when it comes to sauna heaters, and the HUUM DROP 9 doesn’t disappoint. The UKU WiFi system includes features like overheating protection and a child lock, giving us peace of mind during every session. The materials and build quality inspire confidence, and the five-year warranty underscores HUUM’s commitment to excellence.

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Room for Improvement?

While the HUUM DROP 9 ticks nearly every box, there are a few minor considerations to keep in mind. The heater’s substantial stone capacity means it’s quite heavy when fully loaded, so a sturdy wall and proper mounting are essential. Additionally, while the app is incredibly convenient, it’s reliant on a stable WiFi connection. In areas with spotty internet, this could pose a challenge.

Finally, the initial investment is significant, but given the heater’s performance, design, and durability, it’s well worth the cost for sauna enthusiasts seeking a premium experience.

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Final Thoughts: A Worthy Investment

The HUUM DROP 9kW Electric Sauna Heater with UKU WiFi Control is more than just a heater; it’s an investment in wellness, convenience, and design. For our 300-cubic-foot sauna, it’s been a perfect match, providing consistent, gentle heat and elevating our overall sauna experience. The combination of its elegant design, advanced technology, and user-friendly features make it a standout choice for anyone looking to create or upgrade their sauna.

Whether you’re a seasoned sauna enthusiast or just beginning your journey, the HUUM DROP 9 delivers on every promise. It’s a testament to what modern sauna equipment can achieve, blending tradition and innovation into a product that’s as functional as it is beautiful. For us, it’s become an indispensable part of our routine, and we can’t imagine our sauna sessions without it.

Call: 931-369-2344 for any inquiries.

Visit their website to explore this heater and more: The Sauna Place. 

For direct product details and free shipping, check out HUUM DROP 9kW Sauna Heater.

Product Review: Bells of Steel Open Trap Bar / Hex Bar

The Bells of Steel Open Trap Bar / Hex Bar is a must have for anyone looking to elevate their strength training, whether you're a home gym enthusiast, competitive athlete, or someone simply trying to train smarter. Bells of Steel has reimagined the traditional trap bar, adding innovative features like an open-frame design, rotating sleeves, and a built-in deadlift jack. The result? A bar that’s not only versatile but also user-friendly, durable, and far more functional than its predecessors. If you’re looking for a specialty bar that earns its keep in your gym, this one deserves your attention

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Design and Key Features That Stand Out

At first glance, the Bells of Steel Open Trap Bar looks sleek and modern, but it’s the thoughtful engineering behind it that sets it apart. The open-frame design is the star of the show. Unlike traditional closed-frame hex bars, the open structure removes any obstructions during your lifts, allowing you to perform movements that are nearly impossible with a standard trap bar. Exercises like walking lunges, split squats, Romanian deadlifts, and farmer’s carries become smooth and natural. If you’ve ever struggled to find a specialty bar that works for multiple purposes, this bar solves that problem with ease.

Another standout feature is the built-in deadlift jack, a practical addition that makes plate changes incredibly easy. If you’ve ever wrestled with heavy plates mid-workout—lifting one side of a loaded bar off the ground to slide weights on or off—you’ll know just how much energy this small task can drain. With the Bells of Steel Open Trap Bar, all you have to do is tilt the bar onto the jack, and the plates are ready to swap. It’s simple, but it’s genius, and it’s a feature you’ll appreciate every time you train.

What truly separates this bar from others on the market, though, is the inclusion of rotating sleeves. Most trap bars have static sleeves, which can add unnecessary torque on your wrists and elbows during lifts. Bells of Steel took inspiration from Olympic barbells and equipped their trap bar with rotating sleeves to provide buttery-smooth reps. Whether you’re doing deadlifts, bent-over rows, or even curls, the rotation feels natural and helps reduce joint stress. This small but significant upgrade ensures that the bar moves with you, not against you.

The bar’s construction is equally impressive. It’s made from high-quality steel with a black finish on the shaft and zinc on the sleeves, giving it a clean, durable look. The sleeves are slightly shorter than a full-size barbell, but thanks to an extra-thin plate block design, you can still load up to 700 pounds—plenty for even the most ambitious lifters. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete, the Bells of Steel Open Trap Bar is built to handle anything you throw at it.

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Versatility: More Than Just Deadlifts

If you think trap bars are only for deadlifts, you’re in for a surprise. While deadlifts are undoubtedly the bread and butter of trap bar training, the open-frame design transforms this bar into a true multi-purpose tool. The versatility is what makes it such a valuable addition to any home gym.

For example, the open shape makes single-leg movements like lunges and split squats far more accessible. If you’ve ever tried holding dumbbells or balancing a barbell on your back for split squats, you know how awkward it can feel. With the trap bar, you can load up comfortably and perform these movements without feeling off-balance or restricted.

Weighted carries—like farmer’s walks—are another standout exercise. Thanks to the neutral grip handles and balanced design, you can challenge your grip strength, core, and overall conditioning without any discomfort. It’s a phenomenal tool for functional fitness and developing real-world strength.

Beyond that, exercises like Romanian deadlifts, shrugs, bent-over rows, and even overhead presses are fair game. Yes, you can even curl with this bar if you’re looking to switch up your arm training! The bar’s rotating sleeves and neutral handles make these accessory movements smoother and more comfortable than they’d be with a straight barbell. Add resistance bands or chains, and you can crank up the difficulty even further.

Whether your goals are focused on strength, hypertrophy, or athletic performance, the Bells of Steel Open Trap Bar offers endless options for building a well-rounded program. It’s rare to find a specialty bar that covers so many bases, but this bar absolutely delivers.

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Why the Trap Bar Should Be Your First Specialty Bar

If you’re new to specialty bars and wondering where to start, the trap bar should be at the top of your list. Specialty bars are designed to improve ergonomics, reduce stress on your joints, and allow for variations in your lifts, but not all specialty bars are as versatile as the trap bar.

For many lifters, the deadlift is a cornerstone movement—but it’s also one of the most technically demanding lifts, especially for beginners. A traditional straight-bar deadlift places the load in front of your body, which increases strain on the lower back and requires precise form to execute safely. For lifters with longer limbs, mobility issues, or lower back concerns, this can be problematic.

Enter the trap bar. By centering the weight around your body, the trap bar allows for a safer, more balanced deadlift. The neutral grip handles further reduce stress on the shoulders and wrists, making the movement feel more natural. This means beginners can learn the deadlift with proper mechanics and build confidence under load, while advanced lifters can use the trap bar to pull heavier weights for higher reps without excessive lower back fatigue.

But the trap bar isn’t just about deadlifts. Its versatility makes it a true workhorse in your home gym. Whether you’re performing lunges, rows, farmer’s carries, or presses, this bar adapts to your needs. If you’re limited on space or budget and can only invest in one specialty bar, the Bells of Steel Open Trap Bar gives you the most bang for your buck. It’s a single piece of equipment that opens the door to countless exercises, allowing you to train your entire body effectively.

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Final Thoughts

The Bells of Steel Open Trap Bar is a must-have for anyone serious about building strength, improving performance, or training smarter. With its open-frame design, built-in deadlift jack, and rotating sleeves, it takes everything that’s great about a traditional trap bar and elevates it to a new level of functionality.

Whether you’re recovering from an injury, looking for a safer alternative to straight-bar deadlifts, or simply want to add variety to your training, this bar has you covered. It’s durable, versatile, and built with lifters in mind, making it an invaluable addition to any home gym setup.

If you’ve been on the fence about investing in a specialty bar, this is the one to get. The Bells of Steel Open Trap Bar will not only help you lift heavier but also lift smarter—while protecting your back, joints, and long-term progress. Once you’ve trained with it, you’ll wonder how you ever lifted without it. 

For 5% OFF Your Order!

Open Trap Bar / Hex Bar - Bells of Steel USA

Palmar Cooling: A Game-Changer for Improved Endurance Performance in Obstacle Course Racing

Obstacle Course Racing (OCR) is a demanding sport that tests not only your strength and agility but also your endurance. As an avid OCR athlete, I'm always on the lookout for innovative techniques and tools to enhance my performance. One such game-changer that has revolutionized my training and racing experience is palmar cooling. In this blog post, I will share how incorporating palmar cooling during my workouts has significantly improved my endurance performance in OCR.

What is Palmar Cooling? Palmar cooling involves the use of specialized cooling devices (such as the  AVA Cooling Technology Anti-Fatigue Charge Bar or techniques to lower the temperature of the palms and hands. By cooling the hands, which have a high concentration of thermoreceptors, we can positively impact the body's overall thermoregulation system and enhance endurance performance.

Enhanced Thermoregulation: During intense physical activities like OCR, our bodies generate heat, leading to increased core temperature. This rise in temperature can be detrimental to endurance performance, as it can lead to premature fatigue and reduced stamina. However, by employing palmar cooling, we can help regulate body temperature more effectively. Cooling the palms and hands lowers the overall body temperature, enabling us to perform at a higher intensity for a longer duration.

Delaying Fatigue and Enhancing Grip Strength: Maintaining a strong grip is crucial in OCR, where you encounter various obstacles that require a firm hold. Prolonged exercise and increased core temperature can lead to sweaty palms, making it challenging to maintain a secure grip. Palmar cooling counteracts this issue by reducing sweating and keeping the palms dry, resulting in improved grip strength and enhanced performance during obstacles such as monkey bars, rope climbs, and traverse walls. By delaying the onset of fatigue in the hand and forearm muscles, palmar cooling helps maintain a consistent and powerful grip throughout the race.

Improved Recovery and Reduced Inflammation: Intense training and racing put a significant strain on our muscles, leading to microtears and inflammation. Palmar cooling can aid in reducing post-exercise inflammation and accelerating the recovery process. By cooling the hands immediately after a workout or race, we can promote vasoconstriction, which helps limit tissue damage and minimize swelling. This allows for quicker recovery between training sessions and races, ultimately improving overall performance.

Incorporating Palmar Cooling Into Training: Incorporating palmar cooling into your OCR training routine is simple and effective. There are various methods to achieve palmar cooling, including the use of specialized cooling gloves or simply using the AVA Cooling Technology Anti-Fatigue Charge Bar. During longer training sessions or races, I prefer using specially AVA Cooling Technology Anti-Fatigue Charge Bar that provide consistent and targeted cooling to the palms and hands.

Conclusion: As an OCR athlete, endurance performance is crucial to conquerin
g the challenges that lie ahead. Palmar cooling has been a game-changer in my training and racing experience, allowing me to maintain optimal performance, delay fatigue, and enhance my grip strength. By employing palmar cooling techniques, you too can unlock your full potential and take your OCR performance to new heights. Remember to experiment with different cooling methods and find what works best for you. Stay cool, stay strong, and conquer those obstacles!

Disclaimer: It is important to consult with a healthcare professional or sports specialist before implementing any new techniques or tools into your training routine.

Bells of Steel Short Utility Barbell Product Review: Small in Size, Big on Performance

 

When it comes to building out a home gym, space is always a premium. Whether you’re lifting in a one-car garage, a basement with low ceilings, or a corner of your apartment, finding equipment that fits without sacrificing functionality can feel like a constant battle. Enter the Bells of Steel Short Utility Barbell: a compact powerhouse that proves bigger isn’t always better.

At just 69 inches long—17 inches shorter than a standard Olympic barbell—this bar is a game-changer for lifters dealing with limited space. But it’s not just about its shorter length. The Short Utility Barbell packs serious performance, making it a versatile addition to any setup. Let’s explore why this barbell is a must-have for your home or garage gym.

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Compact Design: A Lifesaver for Small Spaces

If you’ve ever struggled to fit a standard barbell into your workout space, you’ll immediately appreciate the brilliance of the Short Utility Barbell. It’s designed to thrive in tight quarters, whether that’s a small garage gym, a basement gym with 8-foot ceilings, or even a shared workout space.

At 69 inches, it’s easier to maneuver and store compared to the usual 86-inch Olympic barbell. You can pop it into a vertical bar holder without worrying about scraping the ceiling or tuck it neatly into a corner when it’s not in use. This compact design doesn’t just free up physical space—it also makes your gym feel less cluttered, giving you room to focus on what matters: your lifts.

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Durability and Strength in a Smaller Package

Don’t let the size fool you. The Short Utility Barbell is just as tough as its full-sized counterparts. With a 1,000-pound weight capacity and 150,000 PSI tensile strength, it’s built to handle everything from heavy deadlifts to dynamic Olympic lifts.

The bar features a 28.5mm shaft diameter, a standard across Olympic and powerlifting bars, and includes dual knurl markings for versatility. The knurling itself is light, offering just enough grip without tearing up your hands during high-volume training. And for squat stability, there’s even a center knurl—a thoughtful touch for a bar this size.

Its sleek black zinc coating on both the shaft and sleeves isn’t just for looks (though it does look amazing). This finish protects against rust and wear, making it ideal for garage or basement gyms where humidity and temperature fluctuations can take a toll on equipment.

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Not Just a Backup Barbell—A Workout Staple

While some might see a short barbell as an accessory to their main lifting setup, this bar offers so much more. It’s perfect for:

• Tight-space deadlifts and Olympic lifts: If you’ve ever felt cramped during a lift, this bar gives you the freedom to train big movements in smaller spaces.
• Landmine exercises: Its shorter length allows for better angles and maneuverability, especially in setups where space is limited.
• Superset efficiency: Having a second barbell on hand is a game-changer for supersetting or accessory work. No more wasting time unloading and reloading plates between movements—you can set up both bars and flow seamlessly through your workout.
• Training with friends: Functional fitness workouts are always more fun with a crew, and having an extra bar ensures everyone can keep up with the pace of the workout.
• Competition practice: Many functional fitness competitions use shorter barbells to fit within lane dimensions. Training with the Short Utility Barbell lets you mimic competition conditions, so you can "practice how you play."

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The Trade-Offs: What You Should Know

As amazing as the Short Utility Barbell is, it’s important to know its limitations. The shorter length between the collars means it’s not rackable on a standard power rack, so if you’re doing heavy squats or bench presses, this might not be your go-to. For those exercises, Bells of Steel offers a Short Rackable Utility Bar, which could be a better fit.

Additionally, the loadable sleeve length is 12 inches, which might limit the number of plates you can load, especially if you’re using thicker bumper plates. That said, for most home gym setups, this is rarely a dealbreaker—especially when you consider how much this bar adds to your overall training versatility.

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Why It Belongs in Every Home Gym

For home gym owners, the Short Utility Barbell is more than just a practical choice—it’s a strategic one. Its compact design makes it a perfect fit for tight spaces, but the benefits don’t stop there. This barbell opens up new possibilities for your workouts, from adding efficiency to supersets to making room for functional fitness-style metcons with friends. 

Plus, the size and weight of this bar are similar to what you’ll find in competition lanes. If you’re preparing for a functional fitness competition, training with this bar helps you adapt to those dimensions, ensuring you’re ready to perform at your best.

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Final Thoughts: Small Bar, Big Potential

The Bells of Steel Short Utility Barbell is proof that great things can come in small packages. It’s compact, durable, and versatile, making it an invaluable addition to any home or garage gym. Whether you’re lifting in tight quarters, prepping for a competition, or just looking to optimize your workout space, this bar delivers on all fronts.

For me, the game-changing moment was realizing how much easier it made my workouts in a crowded garage gym. I could set it up without worrying about bumping into walls or other equipment, and its portability meant I could quickly shift between exercises without missing a beat.

If you’ve been holding off on adding a second barbell to your gym—or if you’re struggling with space constraints—this could be the piece of equipment that transforms your training. The Short Utility Barbell is compact where it counts, but it never compromises on performance.

For 5% OFF Your Order!

Short Utility Barbell - Bells of Steel USA