Swim spas are becoming quite popular in Ontario since they offer both exercise, relaxation, and therapy options for users. A swim spa is typically bigger than a normal hot tub, but smaller than a swimming pool and it provides the best features of both of them. In general, a swim spa creates rushing water by using a propulsion system. Users can then enjoy a workout by swimming against this current. In addition, most models come with hot-tub style therapy jets which will help relieve stress and loosen your muscles.
How Swim Spas Work
The current-speed of a swim spa as well as its size will vary depending on the exact model. However, most water-current speeds range from about 2.5 to eight miles per hour. This allows users to increase the speed of the current if they’d prefer a more rigorous workout. You can also adjust the direction of the water which is being pumped out through the jets. Some models of swim spas create the current by using propellers at the front of the unit. These propellers are securely located behind a grate and the water is pushed toward the back of the spa. You may even come across models which have dual propellers and these allow two users to exercise at their own speed at the same time.
Another method of creating a current in a swim spa is by using a paddle wheel at the rear of the unit which draws water towards it. The type of spa you choose will depend on personal preference but you should be looking for a model which distributes the water evenly and comes with an adjustable flow-speed and current. When the flow or resistance is increased you’ll be able to build up strength and endurance while swimming against it.
For Exercise and Relaxation
As well as exercising in a compact area in the spa, you can also use it for relaxation, socializing and therapy, much like a hot tub. But if your main goal is exercise, a swim spa provides ideal cardiovascular benefits and the buoyancy of the water means it’s easy on your joints and muscles and can help relieve arthritis stiffness and pain and stiffness. Some spas provide seating areas which are separated from the exercise/swimming section, which allows users to relax while others are busy with their workout or learning to swim. This essentially means one area of the unit is a hot tub while the other is the exercise area. Dual heaters will enable you to set different water temperatures in each section.
Perfect For Backyards and Indoor Enclosures
Because of the relatively compact size of a swim spa, many homeowners are starting to install them on their property. You can even install the unit indoors if you have the room. And since a swim spa is basically a self-contained and portable unit it means you can take it with you if you decide to move residences. There are several types and colours of swim-spa materials available for the liners, shells, and cabinets such as fiberglass, thermoplastic, wood, acrylic, stainless steel, and aluminum as well as different combinations of these. You can also customize a unit by adding optional features such as coping, tiling, steps, decking, railings, ramps, security alarms, stereo equipment, heart-rate monitors, rowing machines, swim meters, weight bars, resistance cords, and aqua bikes.
Most swim spas come with lights, seats and pre-installed heaters and pumps and they’re basically maintained the same way as a hot tub or pool. This means you’ll need to add the proper type of chemicals and sanitizers etc. and keep the spa covered when not in use. The specific type of swim spa you invest in will depend on what you want to use it for, where you want to install it and how much room you have.
International Pool & Spa Centers has hot tub showrooms across Ontario and our team of swim spa specialists can help you choose a swim spa that is right for you. We proudly carry Coast Wellness/Swim Spas, which are made in Canada and the are the best built hot tubs in the world.
