As January 1st rolled around this year, you chose your New Year’s Resolution and for the 4th time in a row, you’ve vowed to get into shape and eat better. The first few weeks go pretty well but by the third week, you’re tired of driving to the gym each afternoon. But then you noticed your neighbor has a new swim spa and mentions how he gave up his gym membership years ago. He gets low-impact exercise right in his own backyard–plus he gets to spend quality time with his family while he’s at it! So now, you’ve decided to look into getting a swim spa for you and your family–the fitness, health, wellness, and lifestyle benefits sound pretty great. But what else do you need to know? Here are five things you need to know before buying a swim spa!
1 – Swim Spas Offer Fitness and Fun
Yes, swim spas are primarily manufactured for fitness and exercise. They provide an easy option for swimming, without taking up a lot of space. Swim spas provide resistance for swimmers by the swim spas constantly running flow of water. Essentially, you will be able to fully swim “in place” in a small space, instead of a pool.
Fitness Accessories
Plus, they offer a wide variety of additional workout equipment to enhance your experience. By personalizing your swim spa, it will be your key to year-long fitness. The following are just a few of the possible swim spa accessories that you can add:
- Row Bar Kit
- Underwater Treadmill
- AquaBike
- EndlessPools Fit@Home WiFi and Mobile App
- Swim Tether
- Pace Displays
- Resistance Bands
- CoolZone Cooling System
Not only will your new swim spa be great for fitness, your swim spa can also double as a hot tub! You can take a break from your workout at any time in order to relax on the comfortable seats surrounding the swim spa. And what a great way to recover after exercising!
Fun with Family and Friends
Another perk to the spa portion is the quality time you’ll get to spend with family and friends. Swim spas are perfect for hosting backyard get-togethers, because there’s room for everybody in that hot tub. Plus, kids will love playing and swimming in a swim spa – you could even teach your kids to swim right at home!
2 – Swim Spas are Different than Pools
How is a swim spa different from a normal pool? Why opt for a swim spa over a swimming pool? Here are a few comparisons and why a swim spa may be more ideal for your yard and lifestyle.
They’re a Better Fit for Small Backyards
First of all, swim spas are much smaller than traditional pools. More often than not, pools need a lot more real estate than swim spas. Many people simply do not have the space for a pool in their homes. Swim spas can be a great alternative to traditional swimming pools.
Built-In Spa
Like some swimming pools, some swim spas have built-in spas for you to enjoy after a swim. However, unlike most pools, the built-in spa isn’t optional with a swim spa! A majority of swim spas have spa seats built into them, so that added luxury is included. And if you’d like a pool with a built-in spa, but maybe don’t have the budget or space for it, a swim spa may be a good fit for you!
Swim Currents
Swim spas also have programmable currents that enable you to enjoy authentic resistance as you swim. This will allow you to have a much different swimming experience than you would get from a pool.
Cost Comparison
At the top of everyone’s list is the question, “what is the cost of a swim spa?” Swim spas tend to start around $20,000, and the price ultimately depends on the size and features.
However, when you compare that to the cost of a traditional pool that may or may not offer all of the same features and benefits…the price really starts to soar! This is what makes swim spas a worthwhile investment in the long run.
Enjoy Any Time of Year
What also sets swim spa apart from traditional swimming pools is the fact that you can enjoy them any time of year! Unless the pool is heated, most pool owners have to button up their pools for winter, especially in Colorado. Not a swim spa! Since a swim spa is heated, you can swim all winter long – just turn the heat up!
3 – Swim Spa Installation
Before buying a swim spa, you’ll want to do some research on how to install it. We’ll give a brief summary here, but we have a more in-depth guide on installing swim spas.
Location
Where do you want to place your swim spa? Backyards are the most common, but they can also be installed indoors.
Base
Swim spas are really heavy, so it’s vital they have a strong base that supports their weight. You’ll also need to ensure that the base is level.
Deck
You may also be considering adding a deck around your swim spa. Not only could this help with ease of access, but a deck also enhances your swim spa entertainment space!
If you’re still having trouble figuring out where you’ll install a swim spa, IHT Hot Tubs & Fireplaces offers in-home consultations! You can also download the Endless Pools® AR App to visualize a swim spa in your backyard, which is really helpful with planning your swim spa installation.
5 – Swim Spa Maintenance
Just like a standard pool, a swim spa does require regular maintenance. Don’t let this deter you from purchasing a swim spa, though. Maintenance isn’t difficult and it will keep the water sparkling and your family healthy.
Be sure to complete the following regular swim spa maintenance steps:
- Test the water regularly
- Drain and fill when necessary
- Use a cover when not in use
Remember: if you take care of your swim spa, it will take care of you and your family’s health and wellness.
At IHT Hot Tubs & Fireplaces, we want to fully educate you on the benefits of owning an Endless Pools swim spa. Not only is it a great financial investment, but it’s also an invaluable investment in your health, wellness, and lifestyle. Stop by one of our four locations or schedule your swim spa test swim!
