Skip to main content

How to get in shape using your swim spa

how-to-get-in-shape-using-your-swim-spa

Outdoor swim spas are a terrific way to get some exercise in without leaving the comfort of your own home. Swim spas are larger than regular spas or hot tubs, but smaller than a swimming pool. At one end of the pool, you’ll find high-powered jets which pump water at a constant speed, providing a current to swim against. You can even adjust the settings of your swim spa to control the speed at which you’d like to swim!

How can I exercise in a swim spa?

The time has come to workout with the help of your swim spa! We’ve put together a list of some important points that will make sure you’re getting the most out of your swim spa workouts. Remember to consult a medical professional before beginning any workout programme to guarantee your safety and health.

  1. Invest in exercise equipment 

Having the right workout accessories will make exercising in your swim spa easy! Some fitness equipment will help you get the most out of your workouts. Some of the must-have accessories for your swim spa workout include, attachable rowing accessories, attachable resistance training accessories, water weights, and ankle weights. 

  1. How to prepare for your workout 

Make sure you’re prepared by having all the necessities with you before you start working out. These include things like a towel, shoes, weights, and a water bottle. An excellent way to stay motivated is by curating a specific playlist for your workouts.

  1. Warm up

Once you’re in the swim spa, make sure you get your blood pumping and muscles ready by warming up properly. Some of our favourite warm ups include walking/running against the current or jumping jacks. It’s also important to stretch before you start the workout to prevent injury. Some stretches we recommend include Hip Circles, Torso Twists, Arm Circles & Leg Pendulums

  1. The Workout

Your workout plan should be determined by your personal goals. Most people tend to incorporate a combination of aerobic and muscle-building exercises, with each workout focusing on a specific major body part (arms, legs, core). Alternatively, some people use a circuit-style plan to incorporate all parts of the body during their workout. 

Here are some exercises you may want to include:

Arms

  • Triceps dips

  • Wall push-ups

  • Bicep curls

Legs

  • Squats

  • Lunges

  • Toe pushes

Core

  • Reverse crunches

  • Seated Russian twists

  • Rowing

Cardio

  • Swimming against the current

  • Jogging against the current

  • Treading water

  1. The all-important cool down 

Make sure you remember to cool down after your workout with some static stretches. Stretch all of your muscles, including those you didn’t necessarily target throughout your workout. Let your body float in the water in between stretches. 

  1. Relax and unwind

Well done, you’ve completed your swim spa workout! Grab a bottle of water and relax – you’ve earned it! Repeat your workout throughout the week to help you meet your goals and feel amazing!

At The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company, we stock a wide range of world-class swim spas.  We can help you choose the right product deliver and install it, and we can service and maintain it for you in the many years ahead.

    

The benefits of aquatic workouts

the-benefits-of-aquatic-workouts

There are loads of different ways of exercising these days from the traditional gym to group classes – but have you ever considered the amazing benefits that are associated with aquatic workouts? As we enter the new year and getting healthy becomes a priority for many, finding new and exciting ways to workout isn’t always easy. Did you know that most of your traditional exercises are even more effective when performed in water? Here at The Hot Tub & Swim Spa Company, we’ve outlined how water-based exercises can have immense benefits for both your physical and mental health. 

Physical Benefits

Working out in water can provide significant physical advantages. Research has shown that water-based exercises are better for those who suffer from arthritis since the buoyancy of the water lessens the impact on joints, meaning that there is less risk of injury. Aquatic workouts also support good bone health. This is because the water forces the body upright, supporting balance and can lead to an increase in bone density.

Mental Health Benefits

Physical fitness is not the only factor that determines your health, your mental wellbeing is also equally as important to ensure overall wellness. Aquatic workouts are a great way to work on both your body and mind through rehabilitation. Exercising in the water has been found to help reduce both stress and anxiety. A home spa also provides the perfect setting for family and friends to spend quality time together and build long-lasting connections. 

How to find your perfect swim spa

At The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company, we understand that finding time to dedicate to your personal wellbeing isn’t always straightforward. We can work with you to help you decide which make and model of swim spa would be perfect for you. Our team have expert knowledge of hot tubs, swim spas, saunas, and steam rooms and will be more than happy to discuss your specifications and needs. 

Some of our favourite aquatic workouts include water jogging, high rows and Suntan Supermans. You can find out how to perform all of these exercises plus many more, along with video demonstrations on our YouTube channel.  

We are proud to be the Hot Tub and Swim Spa Retailer of the Year 2021. Our expertise is backed by 23 years of industry knowledge and outstanding customer service. With a diverse range of swim spas on offer, we’re sure that we’ll be able to recommend the perfect spa for you. All of our swim spas are available with 0% APR Buy Now Pay in 9 Months with as little as £500 deposit. Get in touch today to explore your options. 

How to make the most out of your swim spa this winter

how-to-make-the-most-out-of-your-swim-spa-this-winter

Winter is a time for most families to stay home, cuddle up by the fire, and avoid venturing outside as much as possible. The cold weather is a massive turn-off for those who prefer to exercise outside too. That’s why a swim spa is a real game-changer for both families and fitness fanatics as it provides the ideal place to have fun and to work out from the comfort of your own home!

It’s a common misconception that swim spas are only for use during the summer months – they’re designed to be used throughout the whole year! Some people even go as far as to say that they prefer using their swim spa in the winter. Not convinced yet? We’ve put together a list of ways that you can ensure that you’re making the most out of your swim spa this winter. 

Keep fit over winter

We have to admit that it can be challenging to find the motivation to work out during the colder months. Leaving the sofa and going to the gym when it’s cold outside is often the last time on your mind. A swim spa however makes the thought of working out much more appealing. So, there are no excuses when you’re able to work out in your back garden!

Perfect for family time

 As the days become shorter, it can be difficult to try and fit in some quality family time. Using your swim spa to bring your family together is a great way to get around this. Setting some time aside to spend with your family over the winter is a great way to catch up and stay connected.

Winter self-care

Life can get overwhelming at times, especially with the effects of the ongoing pandemic, therefore it’s crucial that you allocate yourself dome dedicated ‘me-time’ this winter. Using the swim spa daily will provide you will a great helping of self-care, whether you choose to relax or work out.

Year-round fun

Unlike an outdoor pool which can be difficult to use during the winter months, a swim spa is quick and hassle-free to heat up and can be used throughout the year – regardless of the weather outside. Understanding the costs of using a swim spa vs a swimming pool might also play a part in making your decision. With a combination of insulation, energy efficiency and low maintenance costs, a swim spa is an ideal choice for anyone looking for a new way to enjoy winter.

As the UK’s number 1 wellness expert, we’re able to advise you throughout the sales process of which model and specification of swim spa would work best for you. Get in touch with a member of the team today to discuss your options.

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

how-to-make-the-most-out-of-your-outdoor-space-this-winter

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

the-ultimate-guide-on-how-swim-spas-work

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

Looking after your swim spa during the winter

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

benefits-of-cold-water-swimming

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.

How to improve your swimming technique

How-to-improve-your-swimming-technique

Did you know that swimming for exercise is one the most effective ways to work out? It’s great for those who want to become more active, regardless of age or ability. Swimming on a regular basis can help to lower the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and stroke. It can also improve your mood and help you maintain a healthy weight. But how good is your swimming technique? Ensuring your form is spot on will help you move faster through the water and prevent you from injuring yourself when in the pool. Here are our top tips on how to improve your swimming technique.

Don’t swim with your hands

When swimming, grab the water with your entire forearm and hand, keeping your forearm at a right angle to your upper arm, and dig the water as if you were gathering sand. Maintain a broad, flat, strong grip with your hands. You’re anchoring your arm in the water and dragging your body over it rather than pushing it through.

Heavy rotations

Each stroke should start with your leading arm entering the water with the low side of your body effectively pointing to the bottom of the pool. The high side of your body should be lifted, and the arm that just ended its stroke should be getting ready to come back to the water.

Keep your head down

Ensure you keep your head down when swimming to keep your torso high, reducing the strain on your neck and lower back, whilst cutting drag.

Find your path

Fewer strokes are preferable in the pool. Your objective should be to cover a lot of ground with each stroke. Continue to glide forward with one arm forward and the other back as your pull yourself towards the other end of the pool.

Allow your feet to drag

Transforming your feet into fins is key to a good swimming technique. Momentum is key, your legs should be tense and scissor you through the water, while your feet remain supple. This will help them flex on the downstroke of each kick, giving them more power and assisting you in twisting your body along the centre axis.

Make every breath count

Before taking a fast, complete breath on the high side, emphatically release the air from your lungs (all of it, not just 90%). If you’re new to swimming, you should breathe after each stroke, but as your endurance increases, switch sides and breathe after three strokes.

The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company offers an extensive range of swim spas that fit all needs and specifications. From our ExecutiveTrainer Swim Spas to the AquaSport Range, we’re sure that we have a swim spa for your every training need. Get in touch with a member of our team to discuss which swim spa fits your requirements today on 0208 300 4003

Our guide to buying a swim spa in 2021

our-guide-to-buying-a-swim-spa-in-2021

For generations, people have visited public pools to enjoy the health benefits that come from swimming. Today, swimming has become one of the most favoured types of workouts across the globe. Swimming is still regarded as the best sport for healthy people, due to the fact that it’s a low impact activity that engages all of the muscles. Although public pools are plentiful, having to travel to the nearest swimming centre can make it tough for people to stick to their routine. A swim spa can solve this problem, however, with so many models and different features now available, purchasing one may be daunting.

As with many large purchases, the best way to identify the right swim spa for you is to make a list of the features and specifications you desire. Being prepared can help you avoid being sucked into any deals or promotions that you’re not 100% sure about.

Fun & Fitness

One of the most undervalued aspects of a swim spa is how it is an incredibly versatile investment. A swim spa can provide endless hours of enjoyment for the entire family, whilst doubling up as your own personal fitness suite. Some exciting features to bear in mind when looking for a swim spa to entertain the family may include LED waterfall fountains for the kids to swim beneath, or adding a sound system!

Comfort, Design, & Massage

The comfort of your swim spa can ultimately be controlled by the design of the different elements. When searching for your swim spa, asses the chairs to verify if they are ergonomically created to accommodate the natural contours of the body. This is incredibly important in ensuring that you’re going to get the best soaking and massage experiences. Don’t be afraid to get in and try out the seats for yourself to see if they’re up to scratch! 

Reputation

Who you end up buying your swim spa from will either make or break your buying experience. Dealing with a reputable store such as The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company will ensure that you are supported before, during, and after you commit to buying a swim spa. If your hot tub were to malfunction, you want to know that you’ve got a dedicated, knowledgeable team at the end of the phone who are able to support and advise you. 

Insulation

Often overlooked, taking into consideration how insulated your swim spa is can pay dividends with your electricity bill. Investing in an energy efficient swim spa that is better equipped to maintain the temperature of the water all year round can dramatically reduce the long-term expenses. Investing in a decent hardcover can also help boost the energy efficiency of your swim spa. 

Other features to consider when buying a swim spa include, jet options, fragrance dispenser, water features, air therapy and lights! Although purchasing a swim spa can seem like a daunting process, getting in contact with a reputable dealer like The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company, who can advise and support you.