The summer months are perfect for enjoying the refreshing waters of your swimming pool, the company of loved ones, and backyard barbeques. Of course, it is only natural to wish that you can continue to create these happy memories as long as you can. When you have an indoor pool enclosure with a heat pump, you can extend your swimming season towards the winter months. In this post, we will discuss the benefits of having the freedom to swim year-round.
Improve your Health
When you extend your swimming season to the winter months, it means you are getting more exercise even when most people prefer cozying up indoors. It is worth noting that one of the best kinds of cardiovascular exercise is swimming. You get to move around without putting excess pressure and stress on your joints. That said, swimming is especially beneficial for older people who cannot jog or run. If you suffer from muscular diseases or arthritis, swimming in the winter can bring you some health benefits.
Safe Fun and Exercise for Everyone
Exercising in the winter months can be challenging for the elderly and young children since they are susceptible to respiratory infections caused by chilling. On the other hand, when you have a heated pool enclosure, you can prevent excessive body heat loss and hypothermia. So, to keep your loved ones safe while swimming, it is a great idea to invest on an enclosed pool with a heat pump.
Another Source of Fun in the Winter
Of course, when you have a heated swimming pool, you can extend your recreational time outdoors with your loved ones. You can have a reason to bring them together for enjoyment and relaxation.
Swim Comfortably in the Winter
Most people enjoy swimming in waters with temperature ranging from 82° and 84°F. However, even during the summer months, the water in the pool can only reach around 75°F without a heat pump. Naturally, the water’s temperature fluctuates according to the changing weather. So, having a pool heater allows you to regulate the pool’s temperature, keeping the waters comfortable and relaxing.
Prolong the Life of your Swimming Pool’s Materials
When you keep the temperature of your pool slightly warmer over the winter, you can keep the water from freezing. Keep in mind that the freezing temperatures can damage the materials of your pool, including its filters, pipes, and tiles. In some cases, it is not a smart idea to drain the water for the winter season. So, there is no other option but to deal with freezing water. By keeping the water liquid during the snowing months, you are saving your pool from frost damage.
Increase the Value of your Home
Having an enclosed heated pool can increase the value of your property. When buyers see that they can swim in the pool year-round, they will more likely consider your purchasing your home. Needless to say, you can immediately attract people who are particularly searching for houses with a pool. They may even be willing to spend a little over their budget because they won’t have to shell out in performing the upgrade themselves. With a heated pool available any season of the year, you can gain a competitive edge in the housing market.
Cold Immersion after Swimming in a Heated Pool
After swimming in your heated pool, you might want to consider immersing in cold waters. According to a blog article posted on the North American Sauna Society, you can enjoy some health advantages from the combination of heat and cold. The sudden burst of cold makes your skin blood vessels constrict rapidly and elevate your blood pressure.
Benefits of Cold Immersion after Swimming in Warm Waters
- Relieve inflammation – If you are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, swimming in warm waters can give you relief. The warmth will make your joint fluid supple. However, the next day, you may find that your inflammation has gotten worse. You can prevent this problem by immersing in the cold after a swim in a heated pool.
- Faster muscle recovery – Immersing in the cold can improve blood flow, preventing muscle soreness and damage. You will feel rejuvenated once you do this after a warm swim in your pool.
- Release endorphins – Cold immersions prompts your brain to release more endorphins and adrenaline, easing your pain and lightening your mood. Because of the density of the cold receptors in your skin, your peripheral nerve endings send electrical impulses to your brain, giving you an anti-depressive effect.
No Cold Pool? Try Rolling in the Snow Instead!
One of the great things about the winter season is the snow itself. So, if you do not have a cold pool, you still have the option of rolling in the snow after dipping in warm waters. Doing this activity gives you the same benefits. It can get your blood pumping, reducing inflammation and improving your mood. Here are some tips when rolling in the snow after swimming in your heated pool:
Choose the Right Spot
When you’re about to roll in the snow, make sure that the spot is soft, dry, powdery, and light. You will feel the snow tingling nicely on your skin as it melts. Mushy, wet snow will also suffice. You just need to ensure that the layer of snow is thick and soft enough to prevent scratching or injuring your skin.
Roll in the Snow
Develop your Own Technique
There is no one way to roll in the snow. Some people prefer rolling on sloping areas that allow them to gather momentum. On the other hand, others want to be more careful by slowly lying or sitting on the snow, throwing handfuls on themselves. What’s important is you only spend less than ten seconds in the cold to avoid hypothermia.
Take Safety Precautions
It is true that the combination of heat and cold can bring various health benefits. However, it is not for everybody. Keep in mind that the sudden shift between extreme temperatures can cause a heart attack. So, if you have a heart problem, you should not try this activity. There are also other risks that come with large amounts of alcohol. So, if you’re intoxicated, avoid swimming in the pool or rolling in the snow.
Having a heated pool undeniably extends your swimming season and brings various benefits. However, it is always best to think about different health considerations.
