Skip to main content

Why is hydrotherapy good for the body?

Hydrotherapy Pool

Water has been used for forms of relaxation and rehabilitation for hundreds of years, and hydrotherapy is still commonly practiced today. Hydrotherapy is effective because of the soothing effects that it has on the body, whilst being completely non-invasive and comfortable.

What is hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy is used for many health reasons since water is effective at relieving pain through cold and hot temperatures. A great example of this is how athletes use ice baths and then hot baths following intense exercise, which helps to aid muscle healing and calm and soothe the body. It can also reduce inflammation.

Spa culture and relaxation

The benefits of hydrotherapy are so well recognised that many spas offer hydrotherapy treatments such as hydrotherapy pools, saunas, steam rooms, Jacuzzis and hot tubs. These provide heat and sometimes massage the body, which provides some of the many health benefits of hydrotherapy to the body and aids relaxation, such as:

Pain and tension relief

Pain and tension can be relieved through the warmth of the water combined with the buoyancy that it gives the body. Both of these things support the body to ease movement, reduce tension and help with the healing of sore muscles or joints. Endorphins are also released by the body during hydrotherapy sessions, which acts as a natural pain reliever for the body, even for long-term incurable illnesses like arthritis.

Injury rehabilitation

Heat from the water during hydrotherapy is good for the body as it raises the overall body temperature of the bather, which increases their blood flow and circulation. This also reduces pain and is especially useful in cases of injuries or rehabilitation following a sports or recreational injury where the muscles or joints need to heal. In fact, hydrotherapy may even be recommended as part of your official rehabilitation and recovery treatment.

Immunity and detoxing

Other ways that hydrotherapy is good for the body include increasing circulation, which in turn causes white blood cells in our immune system fluids to move throughout the body more quickly and efficiently. This can boost the speed at which your body can fight off a cold or similar illnesses by helping your body’s natural processes to become more efficient. At the same time, therapy through other methods such as saunas or steam rooms helps to cleanse the body by flushing toxins out through the skin and removing impurities as the heat causes the body to sweat.

Get the benefits of hydrotherapy at home

Even if your body is healthy, hydrotherapy is fantastic at relieving stress and allows your body to fully relax. You can enjoy these benefits at home with your own Hot Tub which gives you all of the same effects as hydrotherapy spa treatments can.

Take a look at our full range of Hot Tubs today or give us a call on 0208 300 4003 if you have any questions.

How to use your hot tub in the most efficient way

Hot tub - Efficient Use

In recent years, as the popularity of residential hot tubs has continued to rise and the technology has developed, hot tubs are becoming more and more energy efficient, to the point where many can operate for as little as pennies per day. However, it is still worth considering simple opportunities that can improve efficiency even further and ensure you are receiving the best value out of your investment.

Investing in a hot tub cover

When it comes to hot tubs, the majority of heat loss occurs through evaporation, which takes place through the open top of the spa, where the water meets the air. Investing in a quality hot tub cover serves to prevent this by protecting the hot tub from the outside, cooler air, significantly reducing the rate at which heat can be lost and consequently decreasing the amount of energy needed to maintain a consistent water temperature. This helps lead to an overall more efficient spa.

Hot tub enclosure

Another great way to improve the efficiency of your hot tub is to invest in a hot tub enclosure. Ranging from a stylish gazebo to a bespoke, hand crafted cedar pavilion, a hot tub enclosure does not only insulate the hot tub from the outside weather, but also creates an incredible spa environment which promotes a premium relaxation experience. This can be perfect for hosting social events and facilitating for friends and family, as well as creating a private space to spend some time unwinding after a long day.

Optimising your hot tub use

If you are going on holiday and your hot tub will be going without use for an extended period of time, there are a number of ways in which you can optimise the hot tub settings to increase its efficiency whilst keeping it up and running. One way of achieving this is to set all of the jets, lights and blowers not to run whilst not in use, as well as turning down the temperature in the thermostat settings to reduce the amount of energy being consumed at idle in your absence – our spas call this ‘economy mode’.

All of these steps help to reduce the energy usage and improve the efficiency whilst unused, whilst still keeping the hot tub operational. This is important as it allows the hot tub to regulate and clean itself and to stay ready for use as soon as you return.

The effects of improved efficiency

Ultimately, the effect of improving the efficiency of your hot tub is to preserve energy. By opting for a quality hot tub cover or enclosure and optimising your hot tub use, you can reduce the amount of energy needed to maintain your desired hot tub temperature, which consequentially reduces the operating costs.

If you’re interested in learning more about how you can purchase a hot tub for your home, speak to one of our specialist team on 0208 300 4003.

How to use different elements to make your hot tub a focal point and key area

Hot Tub Focus

So, your hot tub is installed, and yo’ve just discovered the sheer bliss that is the hot tub experience. The chances are, all you want to do right now is relax. The wonderfully warm water works wonders to help you unwind and relax after a stressful day, or an intense work out. Here’s how you can improve upon perfection to enhance your hot tub experience with some invigorating elements.

Underwater lighting

One of the most interesting and creative ways to make your hot tub stand out and enhance your spa experience is with a bespoke underwater lighting arrangement. Many hot tub users enjoy taking a dip after work or before bed, relaxing in the soothing warmth of the waters as the sun sets around them. This is where some hot tub lighting can really add a whole new element of personal expression, creativity and a real sense of luxury.

Why not upgrade to our Northern lights package, which offers a range of colours and effects including illuminated waterfall jets, creating a stunningly unique atmosphere.

Hot tub environment

Another great way to add to your hot tub experience is by shaping the area around your hot tub. There are many ways to do this, from a complete landscaping project featuring a bespoke enclosure, to a simple setup with some lighting and furniture. If you are the proud owner of one of our self-cleaning and Serenity hot tubs, you can utilise the deluxe LED and garden effects lighting, which extends your lighting effects to cover the perimeter of your hot tub cabinet.

Music

There’s nothing quite like some soothing music to add to your relaxation experience. Why not use a sound system built right into your hot tub? There are a range of options for adding sound into your hot tub, and some models even come with built in sound solutions.

Enhancing the experience further

Although the options we have explored above are all incredible ways to enhance your hot tub experience, there are so many more options that can help create a personalised relaxation environment. From aromatherapy oils, to hot tub accessories, there are so many options to explore! Have a look and find something that you like, after all, your hot tub should reflect your personal style.

If you are looking at purchasing a hot tub and want to explore the options available to you, or if you already own a hot tub but want to add that special something to enhance your experience, speak to one of our expert team by calling 0208 300 4003.

Why should you invest in a hot tub for your home?

Hot Tub - Blog

There’s something about a hot tub that is just truly irresistible. Whether it’s the incredible sensation of the warm water gently enveloping you after a long day, or the sensation of pride and luxury of owning such a stunning spa – everyone has their own reasons for wanting one. For those of you who might be unsure, or aren’t aware of the benefits of such an investment, here are some of the incredible benefits that you can enjoy with your new hot tub!

The hot tub experience

You might have heard of the incredible hot tub experience, but if you’ve never felt it for yourself, you might be unfamiliar. The hot tub experience refers to the indescribable feeling of coming home after a long day at the work or an intense work-out, and letting the invitingly warm waters of your hot tub ease your aching muscles, as you unwind, releasing the day’s stress as you relax in complete bliss.

The feeling of unwinding in the gentle warmth of your new spa as the light begins to fade is something that truly cannot be rivalled. Another great way to enhance this experience is to share it, whether it’s your partner, your family or your friends, the hot tub atmosphere creates the perfect environment for spending time with the people you love.

Improved health and wellbeing

As well as the incredible relaxation and social benefits, your hot tub is also especially beneficial for your health. The hydrotherapy jets and the warmth of the water provide a range of unique benefits, helping soothe aches and pains and providing a chance to release stress for a better night’s sleep and an overall more comfortable and confident mind.

If you are heavily involved in sports, or suffer from any physical afflictions that cause deep pain, such as arthritis or back pain, a hot tub can help ease any discomfort as the buoyancy of the water creates a low impact environment that allows you to exercise at a pace that suits you as the warm water helps ease pain and keep your muscles supple and flexible.

To find out more about how you could benefit from your own hot tub, speak to a member of our friendly support team on 0208 300 4003, who will be happy to discuss your options with you and help you come to an informed decision to suit your requirements.

Tips for testing the quality of your spa water

iStock-603268680 (1)

Keeping your hot tub operating at maximum efficiency is a great way to guarantee its longevity and ensure you are getting the best value possible from your hot tub. The best way to achieve this is with some basic maintenance. With our self-cleaning hot tubs, maintenance requirements are drastically reduced, but below are a few simple things you can do to further enhance your hot tub experience!

Testing methods

There are a range of different ways in which you can ensure your hot tub is running at maximum efficiency, including using various chemicals and testing strips to check the quality and acidity of the water. Our Insta Test Strips make this process extremely quick and efficient. By dipping the strip in your spa water you will see that the four pads instantly change colour. Line them up with the colour scale on the back of the pot and you will obtain an accurate reading on your waters chlorine, alkaline, pH and hardness level. Be guided by the ‘OK’ regions on the scale to know whether any of the levels need rebalancing.

Why test the pH of your water?

Unbalanced pH levels can impact the quality of the water and your hot tub experience. For this reason, having correctly balanced and neutral water in your hot tub ensures the longevity of your spa, as well as protecting your experience! It is important to know that when your pH is at 7.2, the other chemicals will be working at their optimum. The pH of our eyes is also at 7.2, so you will find that your eyes may become irritated to start to sting if the water becomes too acidic or alkaline.

No foam!

In addition to maintaining the correct chlorine//bromine and pH levels, it is also important to ensure that all spa users shower without using any products before bathing. The reason for this is simple! Our everyday shampoos and skin products can interfere with the quality of the water by making it become foamy. It is also recommended that you do not use any detergents when washing any bathing costumes. However, if you find that your spa does become foamy there is no need to worry! Using our EzBubbleBurst product your spa water will be crystal clear again in no time.

Our engineers are able to advise you about which methods are best for your hot tub or swim spa. To learn more about hot tub products, maintenance and servicing, speak to a member of our team on 0208 300 4003.

How can your hot tub or swim spa increase quality time with your family?

iStock-487549308

There’s nothing quite like a hot tub, and one of the best ways to enjoy your hot tub is with family. Time spent in the hot tub makes for perfect family time, catching up on the day’ events and spending time playing with the kids.

Engaging and socialising with your kids

Whether it’s the TV, the computer or the phone, many parents struggle to pry their children away from their electronics. With your own hot tub or swim spa, this will be a thing of the past. Your children will be looking forward to coming home and relaxing in your hot tub or swim spa. This presents the perfect opportunity to get the family together and spend some valuable time bonding and catching up on the day’s events.

You can enjoy this family time all year round, whether it be sunny or cold outside. In fact, lots of people use their hot tub as part of their Christmas day tradition as well as for warm summer evenings.

Not only this, but the chances are your children are going to want to bring their friends over, presenting a great opportunity to socialise with other parents!

Young children will also love swimming and relaxing with you in the gentle warmth of the hot tub or swim spa. This will help to increase their confidence in the water as they can practice swimming with you in a controlled environment.

Staying active and healthy

Hot tubs and swim spas are also perfect for teaching children to swim and encouraging them to stay active. Swimming regularly is a great way to stay in shape, stay healthy and maintain a healthy lifestyle. As your children grow up, it’s important that they take up some form of regular exercise, as this allows them to develop naturally and grow a healthy body and immune system. This also acts as an excellent opportunity for them to make friends and develop relationships that can last a lifetime.

This is not just important for your kids either. Regular exercise can reduce the risk and symptoms of more than 20 physical and mental health conditions, even going as far as to slow down the body’s natural aging process to help keep you feeling and looking young and healthy.

What superior features do Swim Spas offer you over a traditional swimming pool?

14712552_760089844139838_5828800150238050502_o - Copy

Unlike a traditional swimming pool, there are a number of things that a swim spa can offer above and beyond providing somewhere to swim and keep fit. Here are some of the superior features that swim spas have to offer:

Adjustable water circulation

Water circulation and distribution are easily adjustable within your swim spa, and offer a greater variety of settings than within a standard swimming pool. Current and flow can be adjusted, compared to a pool which will have minimal water movement through filtering only. Different currents mean that you can adjust the speeds for a more relaxing swim or make it more challenging, depending on your preferences. This provides a great way to increase your swimming ability step by step and improve your overall fitness.

Same benefits in a smaller space

In order to swim freely in a swimming pool, it will need to be long to provide enough space to swim lengths. At each end swimmers must turn and swim in the other direction, however a swim spa can provide an infinite swimming length without the need to change direction or slow pace.

This also means that it will only need to take up the fraction of the space that a swimming pool would need, since it only needs to be long enough to swim on-the-spot against a current, making it suitable for smaller inside or outside spaces, or designating one select area of your garden and making it into a great space to relax.

Personalised exercise combined with relaxation

A swimming pool and swim spa are similar in that they both provide a space to swim and keep fit. You can also get many accessories for your swim spa, such as treadmills for water running, weights and more, whilst the ability to adjust the water and currents can aid those with arthritis or other conditions that make exercise more difficult.

A unique benefit that applies only to the swim spa is that it also offers relaxation and a place to socialise easily. Temperature can be changed to suit the current use at any time, and swim spas come in different varieties with a swimming area and hot tub area to provide the best of both worlds.

5 low impact exercises you can do from the comfort of your hot tub

iStock-636262576

Hot tubs are known for their relaxation benefits but a lesser-known use is that hot tubs are ideal for gentle and low impact exercise to improve your overall health and fitness. This doesn’t need to be difficult exercises, and you can enjoy the benefits that this has on your body from the comfort and luxury of your hot tub. At the same time, the heated water helps to increase your overall blood flow, which in turn helps your body to release any toxins. Here are 5 low impact exercises that you can do from the comfort of your hot tub:

#1 Core extensions

You can work your abdominal muscles gently in the water, and the buoyancy created by the water is fantastic to support your back whilst you do this. Simply put yourself into a sitting position facing into the centre of your hot tub. Hold onto the side with both hands before bringing your knees to your chest, and then extending them completely, keeping your back straight. Repeat this 30 times or as many times as you can until you feel the burn in your muscles.

#2 Heel raises

Heel raises are great for slimming and toning your calf muscles, whilst the water supports your body to improve your balance. Stand with your feet flat, and rock backwards and forwards from the toes to the heels of your feet around 15-20 times, repeating as many times as you like. One tip is to engage your core muscles to help you stay completely upright and avoid injury.

#3 Hand claps

This is one that everyone will be able to do. Stand up in the hot tub or kneel down so that your body is fully submerged in the water. Extend your arms out beside you with thumbs towards the sky, and then as quickly as you can bring your palms together, keeping your arms straight. The water provides good resistance to work your arm and shoulder muscles. Repeat 10 times for one set, pushing faster each time.

#4 Supported squats

Squats can be tricky and put strain on the knees, but in a swim spa this strain is taken away through the buoyancy of the water. Stand with your knees bent and your hips tilted back. In repetition, bend your knees to squat as low as possible, then stand up and push your hips forward to full extension whilst squeezing your glutes.

#5 Underwater cycling

Even if you don’t have an underwater exercise bike, you can replicate this movement with your legs under the water in your hot tub. Do this in a seated position and extend your legs in front of you before making pedalling movements as quickly as you can, but with controlled movements. Keep going for as long as you can, and you will begin to feel your muscles working after a little while.

Exercise recovery

These exercises are all easy to do within your hot tub, with the water acting as a support, which is useful if you are suffering from an injury or joint pain. But perhaps the nicest part of the whole experience is relaxing in your hot tub after exercising. The warmth of the water is soothing for your muscles and can help you to fully relax and recover quickly.

Take a look at our full range of hot tubs or give one of the Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company a call today on 0208 300 4003 to find out more.

Could your home sauna help to ease Fibromyalgia?

iStock-638528682

For those who suffer with Fibromyalgia, pain can be constant, alongside all the other symptoms that go with it. However, research has shown that infrared saunas can, in fact, provide effective pain relief and even improve symptoms of fatigue and muscle stiffness.

Treatment for Fibromyalgia

Standard treatments that are offered for those suffering with Fibromyalgia include long-term courses of physiotherapy, as well as cognitive behavioural therapy and combinations of the two techniques to see which provides the most effective treatment for the individual. However, these treatments have been shown to be more useful when combined with infrared sauna use.

Infrared saunas as a treatment for Fibromyalgia

Healthcare professionals actually recommend infrared sauna use to people suffering with Fibromyalgia, whether or not they are undergoing other treatment. This is because it causes changes within the body that help to reduce symptoms. For example, heart rate generally decreases, which reduces peripheral resistance and allows a greater blood flow throughout the body. More oxygen can then be made available to the body, as circulation increases.

Physical benefits of sauna use

As well as blood flow, a stress-inducing hormone, norepinephrine, is also triggered to be released by the brain, which increases alertness and stops fatigue. Additionally, Beta-endorphins are released, which work to reduce pain and relax the muscles. Although this doesn’t reduce symptoms 100%, there can be a significant improvement and definite relief from ongoing pain. The overall benefit of saunas is that they can help sufferers of Fibromyalgia to live with reduced symptoms on a daily basis, and this is why it could be worth investing in your own home sauna.

Home saunas to fit your requirements

Whatever space you have, indoors or outside, The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company can help you to find a sauna that is right for you. They are available to buy, or pay monthly for if this is more suitable for you. Their range is designed to cater to different aesthetic and personal requirements – even including their unique retractable Klafs S1 Saunas. With easy maintenance and access to the benefits of using a sauna on a daily basis, you could see an improvement with pain and fatigue linked to Fibromyalgia.

Saunas for relaxation and fun

As well as the physical benefits, your home sauna will also become an oasis for you to relax alone or a place to socialise with friends. It will become more than a treatment for pain, but a fun and enjoyable place.

Call The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company today to discuss your requirements on 0208 300 4003.