Poolside Protectors – Healthy Living with a pool and / or spa

Living a healthy lifestyle when you have a pool or spa is becoming more important to a lot of clients.  Besides focusing on regular maintenance to keep you and your aquatic needs safe; benefits can also be formed from exercise and relaxation.

Prioritize proper maintenance

Maintain water chemistry to ensure proper sanitizer and pH levels.  Insufficient levels can lead to rashes, infections and other issues.  Balancing chemicals such as alkalinity and calcium are also needed for the safety of your pool and / or spa, helping the longevity of your pool or spa finish and its equipment.

Circulation keeps the water moving through your filtration system.     Your circulation system is best running 24/7 for optimal results. 

Cleaning your water regularly helps to prevent algae growth.  Surface water in a pool should be skimmed as needed, especially when leaves are falling.  Spas should also be skimmed of debris and leaves when required.  Walls should be brushed twice a week and vacuum the bottom once a week.  Hot tubs also require drain and refilling every 3-4 months.

Chemicals should be stored in a cool, dry and well-ventilated area, away from other chemicals.  Always add chemicals to water – never the other way around.  Protective gear such as goggles and gloves are recommended when handling chemicals.

Develop Exercise Routines to Fit Your Lifestyle

Exercising in water reduces the stress on your joints, making it ideal for those or may have arthritis, chronic pain or recovering from injury.

Improve your flexibility.  The buoyancy of water makes it a great place to do gentle stretches.  Using a pool noodle can help to provide you with support while stretching or practicing yoga poses.

Strengthen your muscles.  Use the water resistance of your jets to help tone your muscles.  Do side-to-side hops, squats, leg raises.  For added resistance use water specific weights for legs or arms.

Low-Impact Exercises.  Those who have arthritis, chronic pains or an injury has the ideal spot to focus on low impact exercise.  As water reduces the stress on your joints, taking care of your body while getting some exercise is perfect.

Get in some Cardio.  Swimming laps while performing different swimming strokes can provide a full-body workout.  Also try water jogging or water walking for some effective cardio.

Embrace Relaxation.

Plan a relaxing soak.  Set aside time for your pool or hot tub.  Drink plenty of water beforehand to stay hydrated in the heat.

Try Contrast Therapy.  To improve circulation, alternate between the warmth of your pool or spa to an ice bath (also known as a cold pod).

Maximize relaxation.  Add some aromatherapy to your hot tub with relaxing scents such as Lavender, Lemon, Rose, Egyptian Sandalwood.  Play some soothing music while resting in your hot tub or floating on your favorite pool lounge chair.

Remember to be safe

Supervise those in the pool, even those who can swim – you never know when a cramp may overtake them.

Secure the area.  Install proper fencing and self-latching gates in the yard to prevent uninvited guests from using your pool or hot tub while you are out. 

Emergency Equipment.  Always keep emergency equipment near the pool.  Invest in fence hooks to keep your pole and life saving hook accessible and keep a swim ring nearby.