Swim Spas: Current Solutions
Get in shape, enjoy hydrotherapy, and swim laps without flip-turns.
By Debra Maurer
An average-sized residential inground pool provides plenty of room for both fitness and play. For those specifically interested in lap swimming, there are long, even-depth pools specially designed for that purpose. If you have neither the space nor budget for a pool, you can still swim laps and perform aquatic exercises in a swim spa. This self-contained unit allows you to get fit in the privacy and convenience of your own home. Learn more about the benefits of swim spas and decide if these options are right for you.
Model Choices & Features
A swim spa’s current is powered by a paddlewheel, propeller, or jet propulsion system. Most manufacturers offer one type of current on all of their models, although some offer upgraded systems for more advanced swimmers. The goal is to create a wide, deep, smooth current for optimum swim performance. If possible, it’s a good idea to schedule a wet test at your local dealer so you can try out a particular model and make sure you are happy with the flow of the current.
Swim spas come in a variety of sizes and depths to suit your needs. Compact units start at $18,000 and allow for most swim strokes and aquatic exercises. Some higher-end units have optional deep water wells that add an extra 1 – 2 feet of depth to allow for deep-water running. At least one manufacturer offers a luxury model to perform all swim strokes, including the butterfly. Large units are ideal for families with children because they can serve as mini pools, providing an area where kids can play when the current is turned off. Most mid-size and luxury units have a base price of $25,000 – $35,000.
Many models come with resistance bands and rowing equipment. You may also purchase other water exercise aids, such as buoyancy belts, foam dumbbells, and webbed gloves; these items increase your resistance and allow for more challenging exercises. Underwater treadmills, elliptical machines, and bikes can even be added. Built-in sound systems are an option on some high-end models; they often have docks for iPods and MP3 players so you can stay motivated by listening to your favorite songs or workout playlist. High-end fitness equipment, sound systems, and other options can add another $1,000 – $10,000 to the cost of your swim spa.
Therapy Jets
Most swim spas have jetted seats at the opposite end of the current, allowing the model to serve as a swim spa and hot tub in one. Economy-size units typically have bench seats and a small number of optional jets. Larger models usually have molded seats and more jets throughout the seatbacks. A few deluxe models even have a hot tub area with its own temperature control and seating for up to five people. For homeowners who have always wanted both a pool and a hot tub, these models provide the perfect combination of each.
Versatility
A swim spa can be installed inground, partially recessed, or aboveground, and either indoors or outdoors. This allows you to place the unit wherever it is most convenient. Some owners prefer outdoor applications so they can build a deck around it, and turn it into an outdoor living space. This comes in handy when using the hot tub portion of the swim spa. You’ll want to keep the swim spa covered when not in use to maintain the water temperature and prevent dirt and debris from entering the water.
Other homeowners prefer to install their swim spa in a sunroom or home gym for privacy and maximum usage. Indoor installations are ideal if you plan to use the spa year-round and on a regular basis. However, the foundation must be able to support the weight of the filled swim spa. It’s also important to speak to your HVAC contractor to ensure proper ventilation and avoid any mold or structural damage to the room over time.
Photo courtesy of SwimEx, Inc.
Swim Currents for Pool Owners
If you already own a pool, you can turn it into a swim-in-place pool via a swim current generator (also called a portable stationary-swimming machine). Powered by a propeller or jet, this system provides an adjustable current, similar to what you would find in a swim spa. It can be mounted to the deck of almost any existing pool, as long as the part of the pool where you plan to use it is at least 3 feet deep. Basic models start at $4,000 and operate off a rechargeable battery. More advanced systems cost around $6,000 – $7,000+ and are run by a hydraulic power system, requiring a 220V GFCI circuit.
One benefit of a deck-mounted system is that it can be uninstalled and taken with you if you relocate. Built-in wall-mounted units are also available, but they must be installed during pool construction or a major renovation.
If you’re looking for a simple way to swim in place, while also maintaining proper body position, swim tethers/harnesses are another option. When using a swim tether, you’re working against your own resistance—much like a manual treadmill—as well as the water’s resistance, which makes movements more challenging.
Tether systems consist of a belt attached to one or two cords, which are secured to a base. A pole-based tether uses only one cord; to install it, you’ll need to drill a hole in the deck and secure the base with hydraulic cement. Then assemble the pole and insert it into the base. Another type of tether uses two cords that are attached to fasteners on either end of the pool wall, just below the coping. The fasteners should be spread 10 – 14 feet apart, and you must have 14 feet of swimming clearance. Swim tethers retail for $100 – $200.
Photo courtesy of Endless Pools Swimming Machines