Swim Spas combine luxury with health
Swim spas provide big health benefits with little maintenance.
A swim spa is the middle player between a swimming pool and a hot tub in that it’s a lot bigger than a hot tub (often 30ft in length) but not as big as your average pool. It also comes with technology and equipment that offers a “water gym” experience.
Swim spas vs. pools
Many households find themselves opting for a swim spa instead of swimming pool for various reasons; some simply don’t have the space in their back yard for a full-size pool while others can’t afford the expense building a full-size pool would involve. In addition, many feel that the maintenance of a full-size swimming pool is too much to handle and the water costs are too high.
A big health benefit of swim spas – especially for those who suffer from skin or breathing allergies – is that they contain far fewer chemicals than you’ll find in your standard swimming pool.
Swim spa technology
Swim spas come with wave technology that creates a current to swim against (making the exercise tougher and therefore more beneficial). The current in the swim spa is the result of a paddlewheel while propellers and jets can also be used to create a stream to push the swimmer back. You can adjust the current in terms of strength, speed and direction to match ability and for increased training as your fitness improves.
This is particularly true for aqua aerobics where jets aimed at the lower legs can increase resistance. These same jets can, however, make swimming easier by keeping the body more buoyant.
Deluxe swim spas are developed to encourage deep-water running with customized steel treadmills and bikes which can be installed in the tub. Others have clip-on pulleys and rowing equipment to help strengthen biceps and shoulders.
Water weights, resistance bands, swim fins and buoyancy belts can all be used for aqua aerobics in the tub (the buoyancy of the water allowing those with arthritis and osteoporosis to exercise without the pain of a traditional aerobics class). Not only will you save on monthly gym costs, but you’re likely to exercise more as it involves putting on a swimsuit and taking two steps out the backyard.
The type of fitness routines available are effective, which is why athletes such as Olympic gold medalist Michael Phelps incorporate a swim spa workout into their routines.
Swim spa benefits
You’ll still get the same hydrotherapy benefits from a swim spa as you would a hot tub. The jets can also be used for relaxation and the water temperature adjusted to suit. Stereos, LED underwater lighting and even floor mirrors are included for an additional price.
As well as exercise and relaxation, swim spas are also good for rehabilitation from an injury. The buoyancy of the water means there’s no additional stress being put on the body while the injured area is being flexed underwater.
Pricing
Swim spa prices vary between services and features. On average you can expect to pay anything from $15,000 dollars for a basic model swim spa, right up to $42,000 for a deluxe version complete with special installations such as the treadmill and extra seating.
Before buying a swim spa, it’s a good idea to test them first. You could also check out swim spa reviews from customers.
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