Staying in Shape Using a Spa

You already know that your hot tub provides you with ultimate relaxation and pampering, but its benefits go even further. A soak in your hot tub can provide relief for stiff joints and sore muscles. You can also use your spa both before and after a workout for muscular health and recovery.

The time in between workouts is just as important as the workouts themselves. This is when muscles repair themselves. Adequate nutrition and healing practices are what seal the deal in increasing strength. Your spa can be an integral part of this.

Using your tub before a workout helps you loosen your muscles, meaning you can stretch more deeply and prevent injury. Hop in the spa for 10 to 20 minutes and then follow up with a stretch and plenty of water. This is especially useful if you are feeling particularly stiff!

You can use your hot tub after a workout as well. Make sure that your heart rate has returned back to normal and that you aren’t dealing with any inflammation or swelling (heat won’t be good for that!). Heat therapy will help you relax more and, once again, help you stretch more deeply. Your spa also comes with jets — if you’re on the search for a new spa, be sure to find the best jets for your body.

On the other hand, you might prefer cold therapy. Guess what? Hot Springs offer spas that can get cool as well! With our CoolZone™ system, you can chill the water as low as 60℉. Studies show that applying cold to muscles in pain is actually more effective than heat. Even if you don’t need cold therapy for your muscles, the cooler water will help return your heart rate to normal. What’s more, the CoolZone™ doesn’t mean you have to give up heat; it’s incorporated in with the standard tubs, so you can use it for just about anything you need, any time of the year.

The most important part of muscle stretching and recovery is how you feel. Stay in tune with your body. While spa therapy certainly augments the healing process, it doesn’t mean you can push yourself to the point of injury. Stick with your established exercise routine and pay attention to your body’s cues; for instance, if you’re dealing with inflammation, you may want to opt for cold therapy over heat therapy.

And drink plenty of water! Hydration is essential during a workout, and if you’re going to be in a steaming tub, you especially need to replenish. Watch out for signs of dehydration: lightheadedness, fatigue, and headache.

Of course, all of this is no replacement for medical advice! Always consult with your doctor or a medical professional before starting on any exercise regimen.