Image: New UK Aufguss Champion, Zak Moore. Photography by Lucy Leo Creative.
The third annual UK Aufguss Championships concluded on May 20, 2025, at the state-of-the-art ARC wellness venue in Canary Wharf, London.
Over two days, sauna masters from across the UK showcased their skills in this unique blend of heat, scent, and performance, captivating both judges and audiences alike.
A Showcase of Talent and Creativity
Competitors delivered themed performances that combined precise towel techniques, aromatic infusions, and storytelling. Highlights included:
• Hannah Goodger's "Australian Dream"
• Dan Lawson & Steph Gibb's "Brits Abroad"
• Alison Yates' "Boudicca, The Warrior Queen"
• Antonia Longrigg & Kyle Buttner's "A Royal Escape"
• Zak Moore's "The Dubliner"
• Charlie Bannister's "Against the Ropes"
• Chandler Fox's "La La Aufguss"
After an inspiring and high-energy competition, Zak Moore of Galgorm Resort, in Northern Ireland was crowned winner of the Individual Aufguss category, earning high praise from the judging panel for his emotional storytelling, technical precision and immersive atmosphere.
The international judging panel included Martijn Vanhoorelbeke (Belgium), Lay Pang Ong (Malaysia), Heonsok Kim (Japan), and Christina Boring (Denmark), who assessed performances on professionalism, heat distribution, towel techniques, fragrance use, thematic elements, atmosphere, and team spirit.
Expert Insights
Head Judge Martijn Vanhoorelbeke remarked, "It is heart-warming to see how the UK sauna community comes together to celebrate their common passion through the power of Aufguss. I have seen hugs, smiles, awe, and a total feeling of togetherness. This is what unites us all"
An emotional Event Organizer, Deborah Carr shared her enthusiasm: "The success and growth of the UK Aufguss Championships has been nothing short of incredible. We have seen a surge in the talent of the Sauna Masters and a growing community of sauna enthusiasts embracing the art of Aufguss with passion and enthusiasm. The response to the event has been overwhelming - from sold-out sessions, to heartfelt feedback - proving that the UK is ready to take its place on the global sauna stage.
The Rise of Aufguss in the UK
Aufguss is a sauna ritual that blends heat, aromatherapy, rhythm and performance into a unique wellness experience. Once considered a niche practice, it's now finding a dedicated audience in the UK, where spa-goers are increasingly seeking multisensory treatments that offer both physical and emotional benefits.
The host venue, ARC in Canary Wharf, played a fitting role in this growth story. Since the launch of the UK’s largest sauna facility, with a capacity of 60 persons, and accompanying 8 ice-baths, Arc has delivered a strong focus on curated wellness experiences and is a natural home for competitive Aufguss and a hub for sauna culture.
As awareness continues to build, events like the UK Aufguss Championships are not only spotlighting talented performers but also helping to educate and inspire a new generation of enthusiasts.
Looking Ahead
Winners from this year's championships will represent the UK at the Aufguss World Championships in Italy this September, further cementing the UK's presence in the global sauna community. As Aufguss continues to gain momentum, events like these not only celebrate the artistry of sauna masters but also foster a sense of community and shared wellness.
For more information on upcoming events and the art of Aufguss, visit Aufguss Team UK and the British Sauna Society.
