News
What is a swim spa?
You may have heard swim spas referred to by a variety of names, such as endless pool, lap pool, exercise spa, swim jacuzzi, jet pool, or even the creatively coined ‘turbo pool’! While the terminology may vary, most people are describing the same thing: an extra-large hot tub equipped with a continuous water current for swimming and other aquatic exercises.
In essence, a swim spa provides the experience of an endless pool. The continuous stream of water allows you to swim against the current without needing to turn, offering a compact yet effective way to enjoy aquatic exercise. And with modern features and design, swim spas can offer much more than just a place to swim—they’re versatile fitness and relaxation tools.
Swim Spa vs. Traditional Pools: A Compact Solution
A swim spa is an excellent alternative to a traditional swimming pool. Here’s why:
- Space Efficiency: Swim spas require a much smaller footprint, making them ideal for gardens or properties with limited space.
- Cost-Effectiveness: They are more economical to buy, install, and operate compared to traditional inground pools. Additionally, the energy costs of heating and maintaining a swim spa are significantly lower.
- Year-Round Use: Swim spas offer an all-season pool experience, meaning you can enjoy them 365 days a year without the need for winterizing. Whether it’s a brisk winter evening or a sunny summer day, your swim spa is ready when you are.
- Easier Installation: Unlike inground pools, which can require extensive landscaping and construction, swim spas are self-contained units. This makes them simpler and faster to install.
What Makes a Swim Spa Unique?
At its core, a swim spa functions much like a hot tub but with key differences to accommodate exercise:
- Design: Swim spas are larger, taller, and longer than typical hot tubs, providing ample space for movement and exercise. They’re designed with a streamlined interior to facilitate swimming and other activities.
- Dual Features: Most swim spas include seating areas for relaxation and hydrotherapy, while the remaining space is optimized for exercise. This combination makes them versatile for both fitness and leisure.
- Swim Current: A propulsion system, usually powered by a turbine or water pump, generates the swim current. Advanced models offer programmable settings, allowing you to adjust current strength to suit your fitness level or training goals.
- Temperature Control: You can set the water temperature to your preference—typically around 30°C for exercise. Higher-end models even allow dual temperature zones, so you can enjoy cooler water for swimming and warmer water for relaxation simultaneously.
- Self-Contained: Swim spas are entirely self-contained, requiring only an external power supply. Filtration and heating systems are built into the unit, making maintenance straightforward and convenient.
Versatile Training Options
Swim spas offer far more than just swimming. They provide a versatile platform for a range of low-impact exercises, making them ideal for people of all ages and fitness levels. Here are some popular activities:
- Swimming: Swim against the current for a continuous workout that builds endurance and cardiovascular fitness.
- Running: Aqua jogging reduces impact on your joints while offering an excellent cardio session.
- Cycling: Attach an underwater bike to take your cycling training to the next level.
- Rowing: Add resistance bands or a rowing attachment to work your upper body and core.
- Resistance Training: Use resistance bands for strength training exercises in the water.
- Water Aerobics: Perform low-impact aerobics to improve flexibility and balance.
The buoyancy of water reduces joint stress, making swim spas ideal for rehabilitation and improving range of motion. The warm water also promotes circulation, aiding in recovery from workouts or injuries.
To top it off, most swim spas include hydrotherapy seating, allowing you to enjoy a therapeutic massage right after your workout. The combination of warm water and massage jets can help alleviate muscle soreness and speed up recovery.
Swim Spa Categories
Swim spas come in three main categories, each catering to different needs:
1. Entry-Level/Therapy Swim Spas
Designed for light exercise, rehabilitation, or family fun, these models are more affordable yet maintain high quality. They are perfect for beginners or those looking for gentle, low-impact activities.
Key Features:
- Fewer pumps and jets, leading to a more affordable price point
- Limited water flow adjustability, suitable for gentle swimming or therapy
- Compact size, ideal for smaller spaces
Example: SwimFun
2. Mid-Level/Training Swim Spas
Mid-level swim spas are a great choice for fitness enthusiasts. They strike a balance between performance and affordability, offering increased resistance and greater adjustability to meet a variety of training goals.
Key Features:
- Multiple pumps and jets for a stronger, customizable swim current
- Options for dual-temperature zones, enabling both exercise and hydrotherapy
- Larger sizes to accommodate more vigorous activities
Example: SwimFit
3. High-End/Competitive Swim Spas
Top-tier swim spas are designed for serious athletes or anyone looking for the best in performance and luxury. These models offer advanced features that cater to both competitive training and ultimate relaxation.
Key Features:
- Powerful propulsion systems, including digital controlled current for a smooth, turbulence-free swim
- Programmable swim currents and training zones for personalized workouts
- Luxurious finishes and advanced hydrotherapy features
Example: SwimExpert
Who Are Swim Spas For?
The short answer: everyone! Swim spas are versatile and cater to a wide range of needs and preferences:
- Fitness Enthusiasts: Ideal for people looking for a complete home workout solution.
- Families: A great way to bring the family together for fun and exercise.
- Rehabilitation and Therapy: Perfect for those recovering from injuries or managing chronic conditions.
- Professionals: Competitive swimmers and athletes can benefit from the advanced training features available in high-end models.
No matter your fitness level or goals, a swim spa can be tailored to suit your lifestyle.
Why Choose a Swim Spa?
Swim spas combine the benefits of a traditional pool and a hot tub in one compact package. Here are some key advantages:
- Compact size that fits in most gardens
- No need for constant turning during swimming
- Easier and more affordable installation and maintenance
- Year-round usability, even in colder climates
- Dual-purpose design for exercise and relaxation
- Portability—you can take it with you if you move
- Reduced chemical usage and energy consumption compared to traditional pools
Visit Us to Learn More
If you’re considering a swim spa, we invite you to visit our showroom in Wimborne, Dorset. We have several models on display and one running at all times so you can see the experience firsthand.
We’ll help you assess your space, goals, and preferences to find the perfect swim spa for your needs. Want to try it out? Contact us to arrange a wet test and explore everything a swim spa has to offer.
Start your journey to fitness, relaxation, and year-round aquatic enjoyment today!