Skip to main content

What are the health benefits of using a hot tub?

What_are_the_health_benefits_of_using_a_hot_tub (1)

It turns out that hot tubs aren’t just a great source of entertainment, they also offer great health perks that can make you feel fantastic! From easing the pain of chronic conditions to diminishing stress levels, the hot tub experience can really be beneficial for the mind and body! Here’s a list of just some of the marvellous health benefits bathing in a hot tub provides.

Stress relief

Muscle pain, headaches and fatigue are all symptoms brought on by stress. Leading scientific research has shown that regular hot tub usage can relieve tension and stress through a combination of the warmth, buoyancy and massage.

The warmth of the water stimulates the flow of blood to the organs which allows the body to speed up its healing and regeneration processes. Whilst bathing, the buoyancy of the water also works actively to relieve pressure in joints and muscles. On top of this, the soothing massage provided by hot tub jets stimulate the release of endorphins (also known as nature’s painkillers!).

Reduce the pain from chronic conditions      

Muscle relief, reduced inflammation and joint discomfort, as well as increased ease when doing exercise and daily tasks, are all advantages of soaking in a hot tub! But don’t just take our word for it: The Arthritis Research Campaign has also stated that using a hot tub is an excellent way to add heat to arthritic joints, thus relieving pain.

Sleep more soundly

Say goodbye to insomnia! Around 30 million people in the UK suffer from sleep disorders. According to one study, soaking in a hot tub before bedtime will not only help you fall asleep faster, but will also provide a deeper, more relaxing sleep as your body cools.

Lower diabetic blood sugar levels

Research has found that bathing in a hot tub can stimulate the same benefits as doing exercise. Furthermore, the study found that patients with type 2 diabetes who soak in a hot tub for at lease 30 minutes, six days a week for three weeks, can report a 13 percent drop in blood sugar levels.

Promotes weight loss

Another great benefit of soaking in a hot tub is that, (through the simulation of exercise from the hot water massage), they help promote weight loss. In one study, participants who used hot tubs lost an average of 3.5 pounds in weight without implementing any new diet or changing their physical exercise programmes.

Lower blood pressure

If you typically have high blood pressure, a hot tub can really help you out, studies have shown that blood pressure can be lowered after just 15 minutes in the water. One study even suggested that relaxing in a hot tub is less stressful on the heart and more beneficial than a session on an exercise bike!

These are just some of the amazing benefits for your physical and mental health that you can receive from bathing in a hot tub. If you’re interested in revitalising the body and mind through the wizardry of hydrotherapy, get in touch with one of our friendly team today.

Our top tips for swimming as a beginner

Our_top_ tips_for_swimming_as_a_beginner (1)

Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or are new to a swim spa, it’s always a great idea to brush up on some of the best swimming tips to improve your technique. From warming up correctly to investing in the best swim spa attire, we’ve got you covered. Take a look at our top tips to ensure that you’re making the most of your swimming experience.

Start with a shower

Before you slide into the swim spa, make sure you take a shower. Ensuring you shower before swimming helps to keep the pool water clean and sanitary for those who use it.

Warm Up

Often overlooked, warming up before you start your swimming session is really important to get your body and mind in the right state for swimming. Treat swimming just as you would a workout in the gym, get your blood pumping and let your body adjust to a new environment. We recommend starting with some arm and leg stretches before entering the swim spa, followed by 2-3 minutes of gentle gliding once immersed in the water.

Attire

Committed swimmers should invest in swimwear that is both comfortable and long-lasting. It’s paramount that your body feels relaxed when exercising. There is a variety of durable and stylish swimwear available which are often designed to be chemically resistant and quick-drying! Whether you opt for a high-end stylish bathing suit or something more-demure and modest, the ultimate objective is to feel comfortable and confident in the water.

Swimming must-haves

When swimming, we recommend wearing goggles and a hat. These swimming must-haves work really well to protect your eyes and your hair from the chemicals in the water. Swimming in a chlorine-filled pool on a regular basis can irritate your scalp and lead to dandruff. There’s a great selection of swim hats and goggles available online.

Enjoy it!

Our final, and most important tip is that you enjoy the swimming experience. The ultimate aim is to ensure you’re feeling as comfortable and confident in the water as possible as this will allow you to fully enjoy your time in the swim spa. Whether you’re a novice swimmer or a seasoned pro, swimming is about going at a pace and rhythm that is suited to you.     

These five tips will ensure that you’re getting the most out of your swimming experience. Whether you decide to swim in a pool, swim spa or lake, you’ll feel totally comfortable if you follow these tips. Swimming is a great form of exercise to work into your daily routine, working nearly every muscle in the body and boosting overall cardiovascular health, swimming can really make you feel great.

If you’re an avid swimmer, why not invest in your very own swim spa to really reap the benefits of swimming without even leaving your home! The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company have an extensive range of swim spas to fit every budget and specification.

Can you swim in a swim spa?

Is_it_possible_to_swim_in_a_swim_spa (1)

If you don’t have a lot of space on your property then you may have dismissed the idea of being able to swim at home. A full size swimming pool not only takes up a lot of space but can also involve a lot of work when it comes to maintenance and repairs. A swim spa provides a simple and effective alternative to a pool – it’s significantly smaller and easier to maintain. But can you actually swim in a swim spa?

Swimming at home

The short answer to whether it’s possible to swim in a swim spa is yes! If you haven’t encountered these ingenious pools before they are similar to the way a treadmill works. Instead of continuously walking or running on the rotating surface, in a swim spa you are moving against a current. This simple design means that you can do an intensive – or gentle – swim workout, use the swim spa for training or recovery or try a new way to get fit. There are many different ways to swim at home when you have a swim spa. Given that swimming is one of the best options for a full body workout that is also protective, thanks to the buoyancy of the water, it’s a great option for everyone, from beginners to athletes.

How does the swim spa work?

Every swim spa comes with a built in current system that can be adjusted to suit you. This system means that you can set the pace that you want to swim at and control the experience that you have in the pool. Jet pumps or a propellor within the built in system are used to push water towards you in a consistent current and this is what you’re swimming against. Although the swimming is essentially taking place on the spot you could cover distances of many miles swimming in a swim spa. Swim spas are often compared to hot tubs in terms of the use of jets – water flows through filtration and suction inlets and out through jets. However, in a swim spa the flow rate is higher and the water movement designed for swimming.

What kind of swimming experience do you get in a swim spa?

There are a range of different options when it comes to swim spas and the one you choose will have an impact on your swimming experience. If you haven’t used a swim spa before then the current may require a short period of adjustment to get used to – as you would with any new piece of fitness kit. Many people compare the experience of a swim spa to open water swimming as there can be an element of turbulence involved in the way that the current moves. This can be a great way to strengthen your muscles and technique, whether you’re looking to then go out on the open water or just finding new ways to stay fit and healthy.

It’s not just possible to swim in a swim spa but to enjoy a full range of benefits too, from improved fitness and technique to acquiring a new skill and a fun way to relax and burn off some energy. Find out more about all our self-cleaning swim spas can do here…

Why should I get a swim spa?

Why_should_I get_a_swim_spa (1)

Swim spas have become a game changer when it comes to the opportunities that are available for people who want to swim at home. If you’re looking for a more compact and economic option than a full size swimming pool – with all of the advantages of a pool at home – then a swim spa could fit the bill precisely. Whether you’re keen to find a new way to exercise or looking to enjoy all the other benefits of hydrotherapy there are some very good reasons to consider getting a swim spa for your home.

  • Easy to use in most spaces. Swim spas don’t require a huge property with extensive room to build a pool and they are much easier to install too. Plus, a swim spa is very simple to use – when you’re in the water you start swimming against the current system at a resistance that works for you.
  • Swim spas are designed with exercise in mind. If fitness is your goal then a swim spa is a great idea because these are pools that are designed to help you achieve all your objectives. You can have a great workout in a swim spa whatever level you’re at and it’s simple to adjust the way that you use it so that you can set goals, improve, recover and achieve.
  • Versatility is built in. You can choose to simply swim against the current in your swim spa, varying it depending on the workout you want that day or the training programme you’re working to. There are also many other ways to use your swim spa, including using the acqua fitness step that most models have built in or using accessories such as resistance bands or dumbbells to help optimise your workout.
  • Enjoy the relaxing benefits of hydrotherapy too. Whether you’ve been exercising in the swim spa or elsewhere you can soothe tired muscles and relieve aches and pains by spending time in hot water. Many swim spa models also have a hot tub built in so you can get some massage jet action too.
  • Supporting stronger immunity. Sweating and exercise – as well as the use of massage jets – can all combine to have a really positive impact where your immune system is concerned. Staying healthy is crucial for all of us right now and a swim spa can play a part in this, as exercise activates antibodies and white blood cells and can help your body to fight infections.
  • Helping to manage stress. Whether you are struggling with work and homeschooling or just generally feeling the pressure of national restrictions and a lack of freedom, a burst of exercise in the swim spa could be just what you need to release that negative energy. Swimming is a full body exercise that requires concentration and activates all your muscles. It can relieve tension, physical and emotional, and help you feel refreshed and ready to take life on again.

Whether you’re keen to get fit – or looking for ways to wind down – having a swim spa at home can enhance your life experience in many ways.

Our guide to hot tubs for beginners

Our_guide_to_hot_tubs_for_beginners (1)

There are lots of different elements to consider when it comes to getting a hot tub, including where you’re going to place it to enjoy the best views and what kind of accessories you need to really get the most from it. Care and maintenance of your hot tub are topics that tend to get less attention but which are equally important. This is our basic guide to care and maintenance of hot tubs for beginners.

Choose your sanitiser

Any hot tub owner knows that it’s essential to treat a hot tub regularly with a sanitiser so that it’s a healthy environment, free from bacteria. Any warm place can be a hotbed of bacteria so it’s essential that you treat your hot tub with sanitiser to keep it clean, fresh and bacteria-free. You can choose from a number of different sanitisers, the main two being bromine or chlorine. If you’re looking for a faster acting sanitiser that leaves the water clear then chlorine tablets or granules are the best choice. For a sanitiser with a slightly softer smell, opt for bromine. You’ll need to regularly test the levels of sanitiser in your hot tub – you can do this every few days if the hot tub is getting frequent use.

Check the PH regularly

PH testing will show you whether the water in the hot tub is alkaline or acidic. If the PH is too low you may find you have problems with corrosion and the water could irritate your eyes and skin. If it’s too high then you may get cloudy water, irritation issues and a scale build up. PH levels should ideally be kept within 7.2 and 7.4.

Weekly shock treatments

Use a non-chlorine treatment in your hot tub once a week to “shock” clean it. This will remove the organic compounds that can be left in the water by humans, such as dead skin cells and oils. It will also break down chloramines and help to kill bacteria.

Change the water frequently

You will need to completely change the water in your hot tub from time to time to keep it fresh. How often you need to do this will depend on how much use the hot tub is getting but for most people it’s every three or four months. Before you refill the tub it’s a good idea to clean down the surfaces to remove any substances that might be lurking there.

Clearing the filters

The last key area for beginners is the filters – this is also one of the most important maintenance jobs because if filters aren’t clean they can restrict water flow and the hot tub will shut down completely. There are a number of different ways you can clean filters, from using a spray to soaking them in a bucket overnight with a cleaning solution.

Even if you’re a newbie hot tub owner there are still some basics that you need to get right. Our hot tub guide for beginners will help to ensure that you do.

Top 10 reasons to getting a swim spa

Getting_a_hot_tub (1)

Whether you’re looking to increase the value of your property or improve your experience of daily life, a swim spa can make all the difference. These are the top 10 reasons to have a swim spa in your life.

The right size for any space

If you’d like to have a pool but really only have the room for a hot tub then a swim spa is the ideal compromise. You’ll be able to exercise as if you had a pool and enjoy the benefits of hot tub hydrotherapy too. Swim spas are designed to fit most spaces and to be easy and quick to install.

All the benefits of a swimming pool

Although the swim spa is much smaller than a pool you’ll still be able to enjoy all the benefits. A current is created in the water by the swim spa and you can swim against this or use it to exercise in other ways, such as walking or jogging against it.

All the advantages of a hot tub

Many swim spas have the same features as a hot tub does, including massage jets and ergonomic seating, so you have the combined benefit of a pool and hot tub in one.

Access to hydrotherapy

Humans have used hydrotherapy for centuries as it’s incredibly beneficial for the body. It can be particularly useful if you’re recovering from an injury or in the treatment of chronic conditions, such as arthritis.

Soaking in a swim spa has lots of benefits

From the advantages of exercise to improving sleep and helping to ease aches and pains there are lots of very good reasons to get into your swim spa on a regular basis.

It’s just so convenient

If you’re the kind of person who struggles with exercise motivation then having a swim spa on your property could be life changing – no more excuses as all you have to do is jump out of bed and into the pool.

Improving the aesthetics of your outdoor space

Add some decking and flower beds around the swim spa, as well as loungers and even a bar space and your outside area suddenly becomes a seriously enjoyable and good looking part of the property.

Effective, low impact exercise

Thanks to the weightlessness of the human body in water, swimming is a very low impact exercise when it comes to the effect on muscles and joints. However, it’s high impact with respect to the way it can improve fitness, tone and burn calories. Plus, the water in the swim spa adds resistance so you can achieve even more from your workout than you would on land.

All year round use

You can control temperature in the swim spa so that it’s comfortable all year round – or get into cold water swimming and let the temperature drop in the winter months.

Somewhere to learn the basic skills

If you’re keen to learn to swim – or anyone in your family wants to acquire this skill – having a swim spa at home makes it easy. You don’t need to deal with open water until you’re ready or have people around you until you’ve built your confidence up.

A swim spa is a great asset to any home, adding to the aesthetics and providing a wealth of opportunities for a lifestyle upgrade.

Benefits of soaking in a hot tub

Benefits_of_soaking_in_a_hot_tub (1)

Soaking in a hot tub isn’t just about luxury – it can also be incredibly relaxing, the perfect way to ease away the stresses and strains of a tough day. However, that’s not all that hot tubs have to offer. If you have a hot tub at home then there are some great benefits to spending time in your hot tub that will contribute to positive mental health and physical wellbeing.

Physical relaxation

The warmth of the water and the impact of the jets can be very beneficial for overworked or tired muscles. Whether you’re recovering from new exercise commitments or just the impact of sitting at a desk all day this can considerably ease aches and pains. You can also use a hot tub for a pre-workout soak, which can ensure that your muscles are primed for exercise and the risk of injury is reduced.

Improving cardiovascular condition

Hot water immersion can have considerable benefits for cardiovascular function, including lowering blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular mortality. Just 10 minutes in a hot tub can be beneficial for people who have high blood pressure.

Weight management

There is some evidence that your hot tub can help with weight management via calorie burn too. One study found that an hour in a waist high hot bath burned the same calories as a 30 minute walk. Most of us will benefit from using a hot tub as a top up to healthy exercise and eating for weight loss.

Better sleep

Whether it’s insomnia or you just struggle to sleep through the night you may find that soaking in a hot tub is beneficial for this. One study found that the heat and water combination ensures a deeper and more restful sleep and a hot tub soak can also help your body to relax in preparation for drifting off. Regularly spending time in your hot tub before bed could make you feel more ready for sleep, as well as improving sleep quality.

Relieving physical and emotional stress

Warm water is very soothing for the human body, both on a physical and an emotional level. When this is combined with the massage effect of the jets it can be a very powerful way to release stress and leave the troubles of the day behind. Scheduling in some time in your hot tub at the end of the day can be a simple way to help your body and mind to switch off.

Managing diabetes

Sauna and hot tub therapy can be helpful to those with conditions such as diabetes because it can improve impaired insulin sensitivity.

Soothing joint pain

The impact of the warm water on the human body is to relax muscles, joints and tendons, which can help to soothe pain if these are tight. The buoyancy of the water helps to relieve the heaviness of gravity, which can also reduce symptoms such as pain and tightness. A hot tub can be especially helpful if you have a chronic condition such as arthritis, as it can bring inflammation down and ease stiffness.

These are just a few of the health and wellbeing benefits that spending time in a hot tub can bring.

Top tips for buying a hot tub

Tips_for_buying_a_hot_tub

Recently, we’ve all been spending a lot more time at home – and for many of us that has meant looking at our living spaces with new eyes and finding ways to improve them. A hot tub has been an obvious choice for many people when it comes to creating a spa experience at home, somewhere to relax or a sociable space to enjoy with the rest of the household. If you’re keen to enjoy all the benefits of owning a hot tub too then these are some of our top tips for buying the right one for you.

Research your options

The range of choice that exists for hot tub buyers today is broad and so it’s a good idea to do some research before you make any commitments so that you know you’re getting the very best deal for you. The technical details of the hot tub are essential – for example, make sure you know how many jets, seats and pumps you want your hot tub to have as well as the kind of filtration system and warranty. Make sure you have a good idea of the size of hot tub you’re looking for and any additional features, such as sound or lights. A robust cover will also be essential.

Buy from the right retailer/manufacturer

Part of your research process should be finding the right company to buy your hot tub from. You can discover a lot by researching businesses online, including what kind of experience other customers have had. In particular, make sure that the hot tub you’re planning to buy comes with a warranty and that there is clear information about the company online, including the support you’ll receive during and after the purchase. Visiting a showroom can give you extra peace of mind, where possible.

Choose the right spot

The hot tub you choose should be partly based on personal preference and partly on which model is the most likely to work for the location you want to put it in. Consider how the hot tub will integrate with the overall design of the garden, whether it’s likely to be overlooked by the neighbours and how easy it will be to get from the house to the hot tub, especially on cold days. Think about whether you’d like to have any shelter for the hot tub and the views that you’re likely to have when you’re in it.

Look after your hot tub when you get it

Hot tubs need regular maintenance and you’ll need to check and clean component parts, such as filters, to ensure that your hot tub is safe and functioning optimally. Be prepared to change the water and ensure that your hot tub is being treated with the right chemicals – or to pay someone else to come in and carry out all the maintenance for you. Running costs are also important to consider in advance. The way that the hot tub is constructed, especially when it comes to insulation, can determine how much these are so make sure you factor this into your decision making process.

Buying a hot tub can bring hydrotherapy into your home with all the benefits that has, from relaxation to supporting injury recovery. These top tips will help to ensure that you get a hot tub that’s right for you. Contact our sales team today to see how we can help you find your perfect hot tub

The benefits of swimming daily

The_benefits_of_swimming_daily (1)

Whether you choose a pool, a home swim spa or a body of wild water, swimming is a great commitment to make to your health. There are many benefits to getting into the water, from those that affect your resilience and fitness to the mental health boost that comes from activity and cold water. Swimming daily could be the best choice that you make for yourself in 2021 – here’s why:

It’s enjoyable

For any activity to be sustainable there needs to be a reason that you return to it again and again. Swimming is not just a great way to get fit but can also be very sociable and can help you to relax even during stressful times. You’ll start to notice the impact on your body quickly if you’re keeping up your swimming every day and so the sense of achievement will be strong.

Swimming has many physical benefits

When you’re swimming you’re getting a serious workout, often using all the muscle groups in the body but without the high impact you’d get if you were running or lifting weights. While your body doesn’t feel this impact stress swimming is an activity that increases your heart rate, burning calories and increasing fitness. It can improve your physical endurance and cardiovascular fitness and also tone and build strength in your muscles. Swimming is a great way to maintain your health not just in terms of weight and strength but also the function of your lungs and heart.

But that isn’t where the benefits stop

Yes you’ll get fitter and healthier if you’re swimming on a daily basis but that’s not the only way that you’ll benefit from committing to this activity. Swimming can help you to better manage stress, providing a time out from your daily life and making you feel more relaxed as it’s often a very peaceful activity. Swimming can also improve your physical condition and flexibility, as well as balance and posture. And if you’re swimming every day then you’re also likely to be able to use it as therapy for any injuries or existing conditions.

Swimming tips for 2021

  • Decide where you want to swim and then look into what you need to swim there. This is especially important if you’re going to swim outside – for example, if you’re river swimming then you may need a tow float and river shoes.
  • Be safe. If you’re not a confident swimmer then it makes sense to choose to swim in a lifeguarded pool.
  • Take some lessons. Swim teachers are available for swimmers of any age – learn for the first time or get some tips to brush up on your technique.
  • Build up gradually. Like any exercise you can over exert yourself if you go for it too hard initially so build up your strength gradually and set realistic targets for progress.
  • Remember to rehydrate. You may not notice how hard you’re working as you can’t see sweat in water but you should always refuel and rehydrate after a swimming session.

These are just some of the benefits that you’ll see from swimming daily. Contact our sales team today to see how we can assist you with finding the perfect swim spa for your home…