Buying The Right Swim Spa: Part Seven
What to Look For in the Perfect Swim
For more than 25 years, Hydropool has worked hard to perfect the swim spa swim. When selecting the right swim spa, there are four components to look for to get the perfect swim.
Pumps and Hydraulics
First, look for hydraulic system pumps that are designed to create a flat swim and eliminate turbulence. To achieve this, look for a spa that includes both a throw and catch system. This type of system works like a conveyor belt, reducing turbulence. Your dealer should be able to point you to models with this type of system.
Swim Jets
Second, consider the swim jets. The best jets create a large, wide current that will eliminate turbulence. Hydropool’s patented Sweep 90 jets work to shred the vortex as it emerges from the jets in order to create a calmer area for swimming.
Current Control
Third, look for a swim spa with an adjustable current, so you can dial in the level of your swim. Ideally, you want a swim spa with a variety of settings that can be adjusted for different abilities, from beginners to advanced swimmers.
Shell Design
Last but not least, pay attention to the swim spa’s shell design and how it helps to create the right swim channel to swim in. A curved shell, as Hydropool uses for all of its swim spas, will break up the current to prevent backsplash and create a smoother swim.
What to Avoid in a Swim Spa
There are several mechanical and design flaws you’ll want to avoid when choosing a swim spa. Although large, rectangular channel designs and straight walls are common, this type of design should be avoided. Swimmers using rectangular swim spas often suffer because when a strong current hits the wall, it creates a backsplash that can disrupt your swim. Look for models with outcrops, as these will eliminate backsplash. Bench-style seating should also be avoided.
Fire hose-style jets with air injection should also be avoided. These jet systems utilize multiple controllers to position the jets, which can make it difficult to establish the ideal current for your swim. Instead, look for models where both jets can be adjusted simultaneously using one controller. This will result in a smoother, more even swim.
Finally, avoid pumps that cannot create enough water volume. If you cannot achieve a swim stroke that is deep and wide, you need a swim spa with more volume.
The Best Swim Spas for Everyday Athletes
If you are an everyday athlete who wants to get in shape, you need a swim spa that is wide and deep enough for you to easily do a variety of strokes. Make sure to test your swim spa to ensure that the fit is comfortable.
An adjustable current is another valuable feature. This allows any athlete to individualize their workout by creating more or less speed or resistance. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced swimmer, you’ll be able to adjust the current and challenge yourself as you improve.
A deep shell design is also necessary, as it provides exceptional versatility. Not only can athletes achieve a challenging swimming workout, but they can engage in a range of other in-water exercises such as running against the current or tether cord and rowing.
Finally, seated areas with massage features are a must. They provide an excellent way to care for your body and relax your muscles after a vigorous swim.
The Perfect Swim for Competitive Athletes
If you are a competitive athlete, you need the best swim system. The ability to train at home is one of the biggest perks of owning a swim spa, as it saves you huge amounts of time.
Competitive athletes, such as triathletes benefit from a smooth, adjustable current that they can adjust to a level that will challenge them.
If you’re a competitive athlete, you should also look for a swim spa that can track your progress including time, distance, and the calories used during your swim. Spas that allow for intensive interval training are also extremely important for athletes in training, so make sure to ask your dealer about this.
For athletes who are seriously training, a massage area is important as it will relax your muscles and help you recover for your next workout.
Now that you have some tips for how to create the perfect swim, you can begin your search for the best swim spa for you. Download our swim spa buyers guide and checklist below.
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