Christina Mantoura, Author at The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company

Health Benefits of Soaking in your Hot Tub

Posted on 8 December 2021 - 12:00 by Christina Mantoura

After a long day soaking in a hot tub might be just what you need to relax. Aside from helping you to unwind, it turns out that using a hot tub has additional advantages that you might not be aware of! We’ve put together a list of some of the top benefits that you should know about to make sure you’re getting the most out of your hot tub experience.

Stress relief & Muscle Relaxation

One of the most obvious advantages of a hot tub is its ability to help relieve stress. Warm water’s calming impact and massaging action may aid to ease physical, emotional, and mental stress. You may enhance this stress-relieving impact with gentle music, soft lighting, or aromatherapy to help you relax further. Warm water also helps to relieve tense muscles, helping relieve aches and pains. Did you know what bathing in a hot tub before exercising has also been proven to reduce to chance of injury?

Improve the quality of sleep

Studies have shown that the relaxation provided by a hot tub is a great way to help you fall asleep more easily. The passive heating and cooling of the body promotes the ideal setting for sleep. Alongside this, studies into the effect of hydrotherapy on sleep have concluded that sleep quality dramatically improved after partaking in hydrotherapy.

Pain Relief

Through relaxing muscles, joints, and tendons, soaking in a hot tub can ease certain aches and pains. If you have arthritis, the heat and massage motion may help relieve pain caused by rigidity and inflammation. Did you know that water supports your body and relieves joint pressure, allowing you to increase your flexibility and range of motion?

Promotes a healthy heart

Spending time in a hot tub has been proven to raise your heart rate and lower your blood pressure. Immersing yourself in hot water has positive impacts on vascular functions and blood pressure, while passive heat therapy has been found to reduce cardiovascular risk, especially among people who are unable to exercise.

Burn calories

Some research has also found that using a hot tub on a regular basis can increase your metabolism and result in burning calories. As your heart rate increases, your body has to work harder to pump blood around the body. That isn’t to imply it should replace exercise, but it may aid metabolism, especially for individuals who find it difficult to exercise.

Regularly bathing in a hot tub can have a variety of health advantages, like musculoskeletal relaxation, pain alleviation, and better sleep. Some studies imply that hot tub therapy has a broader range of health advantages, but additional research is needed to pinpoint the specific details.

As a family-operated business encompassing two generations, we have over 50 years combined experience selling and servicing hot tubs, swim spas, pools, saunas, gazebos and steam rooms. Get in touch today to speak with a member of the team about our range of hot tubs or explore our products on our website.

5 ways of making the most out of your hot tub this winter

Posted on 2 December 2021 - 12:00 by Christina Mantoura

5-ways-of-making-the-most-of-your-hot-tub-this-winter

Did you know that there are some great ways to make the most out of your hot tub during the winter months? Many people think it’s too cold to use their hot tub during the winter, however, it’s one of our favourite seasons to take a soak. So, before you put your hot tub away for the winter, we’ve put together a list of 5 ways that you can make the most out of your hot tub during the colder months.

Relax during the festivities

As winter arrives, so does Christmas. With so many things to organise, from shopping to decorations, our schedules become pretty hectic. Reserve a few minutes of your day to enjoy in the hot tub to ensure you’re relaxing and relieving the tension that can build over the festive period. As a result, you’ll feel more focused and be in a better frame of mind to enjoy Christmas to its fullest extent.

Reconnect with loved ones

Spending time in the hot tub with your family allows you to reconnect and reflect on what’s been a crazy year. Jumping in the hot tub is a terrific way to unwind & have meaningful talks with your nearest and dearest without the distractions of screens. It’s definitely one of the best settings to reconnect and relax this winter.

Recovering after exercise

The winter months often mean changing up your exercise routine to centre around more indoor-based activities. When you change up your workout routine you may experience achy muscles. Jumping into the hot tub post-workout will help relieve tension from your muscles, whilst the powerful jets provide a relaxing massage, allowing you to be ready for your workout the following day.

Spend time with friends

Finding time to spend with friends may be difficult, especially over the holidays. Invite friends over for a glass or cocoa and a soak in the hot tub to spark genuine talks and face-to-face interactions. Keep a couple of extra plush spa robes and flip-flops on hand to ensure that your visitors are warm and comfortable while feeling treated.

Make the most of the peace and quiet

The stress of a hectic day at work or helping your family get through the week often culminates in being inundated with the news, social media activity, and meal planning. Spend some time in the hot tub, listening to the soothing sounds of bubbling water, staring at the stars, and taking in the crisp, clean air. This peaceful moment spent interacting with nature will help you relax.

The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company is the UK’s number 1 wellness expert, providing exceptional self-cleaning hot tubs, swim spas, saunas and steam rooms, backed by 35 years of outstanding customer service. With an extensive range of hot tubs available, we’re sure we’ll have the perfect make and model for you. Get in touch today to explore your options.

3 reasons to use your sauna this winter

Posted on 24 November 2021 - 12:00 by Christina Mantoura

Winter is here! While some of us love it, with the shorter days and colder temperatures there are many who find winter to be challenging. If you’re not using a sauna this winter, we’re sure that these three reasons will convert you into an avid sauna user, with these benefits making the winter period a little more bearable.

Sauna use has been proven to improve your mood

Are you struggling to feel motivated? Research has shown that people who frequently use their saunas feel more energised for longer periods of time. Using a sauna is a must if you suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or Winter Depression. Using a sauna helps the body release endorphins, helping to boost your mood.

Sauna use boosts your immune system

Finding the motivation to exercise during the winter months can be challenging. But it’s still really important to sweat to help remove toxins from your body. This is why a sauna will become your best friend during the winter period. It also helps to improve your circulation, making your heart work harder to pump blood around your body.

Sauna use helps to alleviate flu symptoms

The arrival of winter means we’re well into flu season. There’s nothing worse than feeling run down and exhausted from cold and flu symptoms. One of the best things you can do to protect yourself this winter is to use a sauna regularly. Apart from it being good for your overall health, sauna use has been proven to clear sinuses and slow the growth of viruses as a result of the high temperature.

Kickstart your winter with your very own home sauna. From the great health benefits to boosting your overall mood, sauna use really is a must during the winter period.

With a range of traditional and soft options as a modular sauna that allow you to customise the shape, size and design of your sauna and a large variety of ready-made saunas we are sure that we can find the right model for you.

How to make the most out of your outdoor space this winter

Posted on 18 November 2021 - 00:00 by Christina Mantoura

In the past, outdoor areas were frequently neglected throughout the winter. However, taking advantage of outdoor living has never been more popular. Fire pit sales have increased by 300 percent, while outdoor heater sales have surged. Now is the time to welcome the cooler weather by making your garden or patio the cosiest spot around.

When you’re designing your outdoor space, curate it as if it’s another room in your house. Want to feel transported to your own pirate oasis when stepping into your garden? Why not consider a rotating roof enclosure? The Rotating Roof is a must-have in every garden! At the press of a button, the Rotating Roof transforms from an open roof to a full rain cover for those clear winter days! You’ll never have to worry about getting dripped or dropped on again thanks to smart “leaf catch” and “rain catch” technologies!

Another way to create a cosy outdoor space is with your very own outdoor TV and entertainment system. Packed with great features, Proofvision Outdoor Televisions’ smart functionality brings a world of entertainment to your fingertips. They’re the perfect addition to your exterior winter setup, being completely waterproof and able to withstand temperatures as low as -20 degrees! When paired with a pair of fantastic outdoor speakers by Yamaha, you can bring the magic of the big screen right to your garden. What could be better than getting cosy with a classic film al fresco style?

By carefully designing your outdoor space you’ll be able to enjoy it all year round – despite the unpredictable British weather! Here at The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company, we have over 30 years of experience in transforming outdoor spaces into your own personal sanctuary. From gazebos to enclosures to fully integrated multimedia entertainment systems, we’re certain we can help you on your way to creating a perfect winter space for you and your family to enjoy year after year.

Get in contact with a member of the team today on 0208 300 4003 to discuss your ideas and specifications. With a wealth of knowledge within the construction, renovation and landscaping industry, we’ll be able to advise you on how to transform your outdoor space.

The ultimate guide on how swim spas work

Posted on 11 November 2021 - 12:00 by Christina Mantoura

You may not think it, but it is possible to swim on the spot whilst still being able to improve your stroke and enjoying a full body workout. When you consider the purpose of a treadmill for runners, a swim spa serves the same purpose for swimmers!

How do swim spas work?

Swim spas feature an integrated current system that supports swimming in one spot. This is done through the use of a jet pump or propeller which continually pushes water towards the swimmer, creating a current to swim against. With a similar make-up to that of a hot tub, water enters the swim spa through filtration and suction inlets. The difference is that the water moves at a much faster rate.

What features do swim spas have?

At The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company, we stock an extensive range of swim spas which all have different features. Let’s introduce you to some of our bestselling swim spas and some of their great features.

AquaSport

The AquaSport encompasses the benefits of both a hot tub and a swim spa! This model is great if you’re looking for an exercise space as well as a place to relax, with distinct zones for each. It’s also part of our self-cleaning range, which means you’ll have more time for yourself rather than on maintenance.

AquaTrainer

The AquaTrainer is the model for you if you want a highly sophisticated swim spa with a deep tank. This is one of our most advanced models, with its ergonomic design, and wealth of features such as hydrotherapy seats with zone therapy.

AquaStream

The AquaStream comes with electronically controlled twin jets alongside dual performance low intake which substantially reduces the reflective wave effect. These features can revolutionise your workouts. What’s more, you’re able to adjust the resistant swim current to your liking and enjoy a lower body massage from the thigh abductor jets. It also comes with two full-body massage chairs! – What more could you ask for?

ExecutiveSport

If you’re serious about swimming, The Executive Sport swim spa is regarded as one of the most advanced swim spas on the market. Its unique Current Collector and V-twin jets optimise water flow, letting you swim with far less turbulence than models from other manufacturers. In need of a well-deserved massage after your workout? The ExecutiveSport’s hydro-massage jets will help your whole body relax whilst supporting your muscles and joints.

If you’re considering purchasing a swim spa for your home, call our showroom today on 0208 300 4003 to speak with a member of our dedicated sales team who can answer all your questions and queries about our range of swim spas

Benefits of using a hot tub before and after your workout

Posted on 4 November 2021 - 12:00 by Christina Mantoura

benefits-of-using-a-hot-tub-before-and-after-a-workout

Did you know that hydrotherapy provides a host of advantages and there are some benefits specifically tied to workout recovery? Here at The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company, we’ve put together a list of some of the amazing hydrotherapy benefits you can take advantage of pre and post workout.

Increases circulation

When you spend time in a hot tub or swim spa your circulation improves. As your body is under pressure during a workout, making sure that your body is able to pump blood to your muscles to provide them with oxygen is incredibly important. Warm water dilates the blood vessels which supports your circulatory system – that’s why soaking in a hot tub before your workout is a great idea. This way you’ll be well-prepared and less likely to suffer an injury.

Helps you stretch

You lower your chance of sustaining an injury during your workout if you stretch beforehand and a hot tub session can support you in doing this. Stretching in a hot tub relieves the gravitational strain on your muscles and joint as a result of the buoyancy of the water. Additionally, the water’s warmth and pressure can assist in deepening the stretches.

Increases motivation

Relaxing in a hot tub can help you focus by allowing you to unwind. Anxiety is decreased, and focus is improved. Relaxation techniques, by eliminating distractions and focusing your attention where it’s required most, have been shown to significantly increase competitive performance.

Burn more calories

Even when you’re at rest, soaking in a hot tub can help you burn more calories. It’s the perfect complement to physical exercise. Starting a workout by jogging in the water or practicing some easy yoga poses is an amazing way to get started. The water’s buoyancy and resistance give a low-impact approach to exercise. This is perfect for those who find regular exercise taxing on their joint or who need a rest day in between strenuous exercise.

Reduces stress levels

There’s a lot of research that supports the idea that bathing in a hot tub relieves mental, emotional and physical stress. It’s a great way to get yourself in the right frame of mind before your workout. After a workout, bathing in a hot tub can help relieve the tension that exercise places on the muscles and joints.

Supports post-workout recovery

After a workout, soaking in hot tub can help decrease inflammation and swelling. The warmth of the water and the pressure from the spa jets can help to sooth your joints and muscles too. The high degree of muscular tension reduction helps the body recover faster, allowing you to be prepared for the next session.

The Hot Tub and Swim Spa company stocks a variety of hot tubs that are perfect for relaxing in before or after your workout. Get in contact with a member of the team today to discuss your hot tub requirements on 0208 300 4003.

How to enjoy your hot tub in Autumn

Posted on 28 October 2021 - 09:00 by Christina Mantoura

Autumn is a beautiful season and a great time to take advantage of your hot tub. With the crispness of the air and the golden leaves on the trees, it’s one of our favourite times of year to relax outside in the water. Still not convinced? We’ve put a list together of some of our favourite ways you can enjoy your hot tub this autumn.

Admire the autumnal surrounding

Admire the rainbow of colours that has descended on your garden whilst you kick back in the hot tub. As the temperature starts to drop outside, it’s also a great time to appreciate the crispness of the air, making you feel even more relaxed inside your spa.

Enjoy an autumn drink

Really get yourself into the autumn mood with a warm drink. One of our favourites is a hot apple cider. Enjoy a glass whilst admiring the autumn leaves from your hot tub.

Watch a scary film

Halloween season is upon us – what better excuse to sit back in the hot tub and put on a spooky movie? Watching it outside in the dark will make it even scarier. Our Proofvision outdoor televisions come in a variety of sizes and are designed to provide a great viewing experience even in the brightest of sunlight – bringing the big screen right to your garden!

Stargaze from your hot tub

As the nights get longer, there’s no excuse not to sit back in the hot tub and unwind under the night sky. Who knows… you might even spot a shooting star!

Read a spooky book

As autumn is the season of all things spooky, why not relax in the hot tub and delve into a classic horror novel? Some of our favourites include The Women in Black by Susan Hill or Stephen King’s The Shining – whatever you choose, we’re sure that the cool air and outdoor setting will make the story even eerier.

Birdwatch from your hot tub

As birds from across the country being to make the journey south to spend the winter in warmer climates, it’s a great time to see which ones you can spot. We recommend setting up a bird feeder within sight of your hot tub, so you can see which types of birds pass by.

A hot tub is a versatile investment and can be enjoyed all year round. We are the UK’s leading wellness expert, providing exceptional self-cleaning hot tubs for over 35 years. Visit our website today to explore our extensive range, or visit us at our award-winning showroom located at Ruxley Manor Garden Centre, Kent.

Looking after your swim spa during the winter

Posted on 21 October 2021 - 12:00 by Christina Mantoura

looking-after-your-swim-spa-during-winter

Swim spas are a great investment for your home as you’re able to use them throughout the whole year! This being said, there are a few maintenance tips that you should be aware of to ensure that your swim spa is performing with optimum efficiency.

Deep clean your swim spa

Deep cleaning your swim spa will guarantee that it runs smoothly throughout the winter months, eliminating the need to change the water during the coldest months of the year. A thorough deep clean will make sure that all pipework, filters, covers, and the swim spa shell are as clean as can be, allowing you to use your swim spa without having to worry about it throughout the winter.

Use a cover

When you’re not using your swim spa, it is advised that a quality insulating thermal cover be fitted. There are good alternatives to hard covers such as a Covana covering. When the weather becomes colder, tunnels and floating covers may not be able to keep your swim spa at the desired temperature so we’d highly recommend investing in a good, durable swim spa cover.

Maintain the right chemical balance

Maintaining the pH and sanitiser levels in your swim spa is another great way that you can help protect it during the colder months. Before you start looking at pH levels, make sure the water’s alkalinity is correctly balanced. A floating dispenser will gently release sanitising chemicals into the water to ensure the appropriate quantities of sanitiser.

Don’t allow for freezing

The best method to care for your swim spa throughout the winter is to use it frequently. If you want to drain your swim spa for the winter, you should hire a professional to do this for you. This procedure includes draining and completely removing all water from the spa, the pipes and the pumps. The engineer will also disconnect all pipes after draining. This will prevent any damage occurring to your swim spa due to freezing. Before refilling your swim spa in the spring, these pipes will need to be reconnected again by an engineer.

The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company is the UK’s number 1 wellness expert, providing exceptional self-cleaning hot tubs, swim spas, saunas and steam rooms, backed by 35 years of outstanding customer service. Get in touch with a member of the team today to enquire about our range of swim spas.

Health benefits of cold-water swimming

Posted on 14 October 2021 - 10:00 by Christina Mantoura

Cold water swimming often takes place during the winter in pools, lakes and ponds, in water with temperatures lower than 5 degrees Celsius. With those that practise cold-water swimming regularly experiencing an increase in their life expectancy and overall quality of life, there are some major health benefits of taking a dip in icy waters. Paired with a balanced diet, cold-water swimming has been proven to improve your overall fitness. We’ve collated six of the top health benefits that you could experience once taking up cold-water swimming.

Helps to strengthen your immune system

There has been extensive research into the immune system’s response to cold water. It’s understood that as your body reacts to a change in external stimuli (the cold water), your white blood cell count increases tenfold. Over time, this helps your body build its defence against harmful bacteria and viruses. There’s a reason why people who swim in cold water don’t get sick very often.

Releases endorphins

The brain releases endorphins, responsible for feelings of pleasure and well-being, when we conduct certain activities, such as when we work out. Swimming in cold water takes us close to our bodies’ pain threshold, triggering the release of endorphins to help us deal with the pain. The release of endorphins has been proven to help those with depression or struggling with their mental health. Circulation is enhanced

Swimming on cold water has been proven to help cleanse your veins, arteries, and capillaries. In an effort to keep the body warm when exposed to the cold water, the circulatory system is forced to work harder, pushing blood to the surface, thus increasing blood flow around the body.

It improves your libido

Historically, cold water therapy was used to suppress sexual urges. In fact, it has the opposite effect, with research proving that it actually enhances your libido as it enhances oestrogen and testosterone production.

It burns more calories

Swimming in cold water requires the heart to beat faster and the body to work harder to keep itself warm, meaning that you’ll burn more calories than if you were swimming in a heated pool. It’s no surprise that most cold-water swimmers are in good shape!

Helps relieve stress

Stress in something that most people experience on almost a daily basis and can be extremely damaging to your health. Reducing stress levels will help you feel healthier and happier and also more resilient when faced with stressful situations. Swimming in cold water puts physical and emotional strain on the body. The relationship between cold water and stress reduction has been proven in several studies, with swimmers who swim in cold water feeling naturally calmer and more relaxed.

As the UK’s number 1 wellness expert, The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company offers an extensive range of hot tubs, swim spas, saunas and steam rooms, backed by 35 years of outstanding customer service. Get in touch with a member of our friendly team on 0208 300 4003 to discuss your options.

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