Hydro Pools: A Versatile and Compact Hydrotherapy

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For many people, a swimming pool is simply a place to get some exercise, play around in the water, and have fun. A hot tub can be the perfect spot to warm up and receive a hot water massage while releasing stress and tension for those searching for something a little more relaxing.

Notwithstanding, a third alternative combines these two types of aquatic leisure while also giving something much more therapeutic. With a hydrotherapy swimming pool, aka swim spa, you don’t have to give up exercise or relaxation. Plus, you’ll also have access to the extra benefit of hydrotherapy. 

If you’re wondering what a hydrotherapy swimming pool is and how it is superior to a standard swimming pool or a hot tub, then this article is exclusively a treat for you!

What is hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy is an exercise therapy in a hydro (warm) pool. It has numerous advantages and targets and treats a wide range of ailments. 

Hydrotherapy can be used as part of a pain treatment or injury recovery program or a regular exercise regimen to improve overall fitness and health.

Hydrotherapy uses some of the inherent qualities of water to allow workouts to be performed with less impact and greater safety, all while increasing blood flow and circulation. 

What is a hydrotherapy pool?

Hydrotherapy pools are special pools heated to roughly 33 to 36 degrees Celsius, warmer than a swimming pool. They also contain built-in massaging jets and water features that are meant to help you relax. 

It’s no surprise that hydrotherapy pools are among the most popular thermal facilities available at many fabulous spas. They’re warm, calming, and invigorating.

HOW IS HYDROTHERAPY POOL DIFFERENT FROM OTHER POOLS?

Hydrotherapy pools are different from ordinary swimming pools in many ways. 

 Primarily, a hydrotherapy pool’s objective is to provide a rehabilitative environment that will aid in the restoration of health and the healing of injuries. Exercising in the water is also good since it helps support a person’s weight.

Because of the temperature, you’d be able to tell the change as soon as you enter a room with a hydrotherapy pool. The water temperature in a hydrotherapy pool is normally around 33–36°C, much warmer than a standard swimming pool (which is usually no hotter than 28°C). The hotter the water, the more humid the room will be.

Hydrotherapy pools in public places are designed for those with limited mobility. Both assisted and independent access is available at the pools.

Hydrotherapy has continued to gain popularity because of its numerous physical and psychological benefits. 

Benefits of hydrotherapy

Reduces Joint Impact and Body Pain.

Water’s buoyancy decreases weight-bearing stress on the body, allows for unrestricted movement, and enhances the range of motion for your joints.

Warm water combined with hydrostatic pressure (the resistance we experience when submerged in water) stimulates circulation and reduces swelling in the body.

The greater temperature also causes muscles to relax, which helps relieve muscle spasms and intense pain areas of the body.

Enhances fitness and balance.

The density of water increases resistance on the body when doing a workout. Muscles can be strengthened, toned, and reeducated in the milieu of a hydrotherapy pool.

It’s a fantastic alternative to lifting weights on land. Turbulence in the water also causes your core muscles to work harder to maintain balance and stability, improving your posture over time.

Exercises Tailored to Your Specific Needs.

Public hydrotherapy pools provide a range of classes, freestyle, and private sessions to meet different needs so that you won’t feel out of your depth.

Everyone has the freedom to move at their speed. Remember that the faster you go in the water, the more resistance you’ll encounter and the more your muscles will have to work.

Floating dumbbells, ankle weights, noodles, and other pool toys can all be utilized to increase resistance or assist with floatation with little effort.

Anxiety and mental stress.

Immersing yourself in warm water has a calming impact on the body (as muscles naturally relax) and the psyche.

Cortisol (stress hormone) levels are reduced, and serotonin levels are increased in the relaxing ambiance of a hydrotherapy pool combined with activities tailored to your specific needs (happy hormone).

Social Activity and Fun.

Hydrotherapy is a pleasurable recreational activity! It allows people to get out of the house, socialize, and participate in a range of workouts that would be difficult or impossible to do on land.

Those with limited mobility can gain complete freedom in the water and compete on an equal footing with their non-disabled competitors.

Hydrotherapy skills can help you gain confidence in the water, raise your mood, and improve your general health and well-being.

Who Can Use Hydrotherapy?

This treatment is suitable for a wide range of persons suffering from various disorders or accidents. Hydrotherapy pools are commonly installed in rehabilitation clinics, but they are also employed in special education schools and private residences.

Here are a few persons that hydrotherapy might be used on:

• People suffering from spinal injuries
• Adults or children with learning challenges or physical disabilities.
• Athletes recovering from injuries 
• Persons with Arthritis

What to know before any hydrotherapy session.

There are a few things to consider before taking the plunge. Hydrotherapy pools and full tummies don’t mix well, so save your big lunch for after you’ve finished your plunge.

Also, due to the risk of dehydration, it is best to avoid consuming alcohol before plunging a toe in a hydro pool or using other thermal amenities (and falling asleep).

While hydro pools have numerous advantages, they are not appropriate for everyone. Pregnant women are one such group that should avoid heat-based facilities, rapid water jets, and slippery poolside areas.

Suppose you have other conditions, such as (but not limited to) cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and respiratory infections. In that case, it is important to check with your doctor before your spa visit.

You should also let the spa know ahead of time if you have any medical issues or have had recent surgery.

What to expect after a hydrotherapy session.

Straight after your hydro pool session, be aware that you might feel hungry. It is also important to rehydrate and flush out the toxins from your body by drinking plenty of water.

Given the dual relaxing nature of hydrotherapy pools, you might feel energized or sleepy. So, you may want to hit the gym, head to the relaxation area, or enjoy a leisurely meal. 

Conclusion

Because hydrotherapy pools are intended to ease slow, routine exercise that aid in the rehabilitation of persons, they may not be the best place to practice your swimming time trials.

Anyone who entered a hydrotherapy pool and began practicing their front crawl would quickly struggle and become exhausted because of the heat. That’s why hydrotherapy is so much slower and gentler. 

Also, a physiotherapist will normally accompany you to the pool to demonstrate the exercises they want you to complete based on your injuries and range of movements.

Hydrotherapy isn’t like aquacise or aqua-aerobics, which are typically more rigorous and stamina-based — it’s all about improving strength. 

Thanks for reading to the end. And as always, we wish you the best!