Introduction
There are basically two types of a spa pool, one is the traditional hot tub or jacuzzi where jets circulate heated water in a round or oval pool. The other is a small swimming pool that circulates water in a straight or curved fashion and allows the user to swim in place for therapy or exercise. The hot tub type of spa pool has built in benches or ledges that allow users to sit down in the water. This type of spa pool is suitable for relaxation and sometimes can be used for water therapy, but it is not suitable for swimming.
History
Gaius Maecenas allegedly built the first heated swimming pool in Rome sometime during the first century BC. Today's spa pools may be similar to those of ancient Rome and Greece, where pools were used for both athletic training and relaxation.
Features
Fitness clubs, hotels and day spas typically have at least one large spa pool that allows several people to use it at one time. These commercial spa pools may have gradations of temperature or depth. A person who wishes to use a spa pool does not have to go to an expensive hotel, spa, or fitness club, however. A small spa pool, hot tub or continuous swimming pool can be installed in a small space for a relatively low cost.
A person who wishes to have a spa pool installed at home needs to take several things into consideration before making a purchase, such as:
How much money is available to spend on the spa pool and its installation? What will be the primary use of the spa pool? Will it be used primarily for exercise, therapy or recreation? How much space is available for installation of the spa pool? Is a sunken spa pool or an above ground or patio pool appropriate? How much will yearly maintenance of the spa pool cost? Take into account repairs, cleaning, costs of heating and adding chemicals that may be needed to maintain sanitation and hygiene. How often will the spa pool be used? Will usage of the spa pool be frequent enough to justify its expense?
Once a homeowner has decided on the type of spa pool that is a good fit, he will need to consider what accessories are appropriate. For the spa pool that will be used primarily for recreation, there are many optional features that can be added to the pool itself and to the surrounding area, including trays, ledges and even television sets. Steps, handle bars, and other items that help people enter and exit the spa pool may also be needed.
Tips and Comments
The continuous swimming type of spa pool is versatile because it can be used both for exercise and for recreation. The continuous swimming spa pool can be used for swimming in place, water aerobics and other types of water therapy and exercise. Some models include built-in benches or ledges and jets that can switch on and off. The continuous swimming pool can then be used as a hot tub.
Whether it is used for recreation or healthy exercise, a spa pool can enhance the home and the life of a person who uses it.
