Those who regularly exercise generally begin their session by warming up. Some do this actively, others do it passively. Additionally, there is some controversy among those who routinely exercise about whether applying heat or ice is the preferred after-exercise routine. At Goodall Pool & Spas, we assist people in understanding the value of a passive warm-up that comes with a 10 to 20-minute soak in their spa prior to embarking on their exercise routine and the scientifically proven benefits of using your spa after exercise.
A Spa Soak Before Exercise Is Beneficial
Soaking in a spa for 10 to 20 minutes prior to embarking on your exercise routine benefits you both mentally and physically. Physically immersing your body into the warm water increases the blood flow to your muscles as well as increasing your core body temperature. An increased core body temperature results in your body burning more calories during your exercise routine.
The soak also relaxes your muscles and helps avoid muscle cramps and other problems that can come when muscles are stretched without first warming up. Sitting in the spa is ideal for stretching your muscles without the risk of injury that comes when you start your exercise routine without having warmed up. The buoyancy of the water makes it easy to perform your stretches.
Soaking in the hot tub also allows you to become mentally in tune and at peace with yourself which helps you concentrate on your exercise routine that follows. You can focus on your exercise goals and visualize yourself reaching them.
A Spa Soak Immediately After Exercising May Also Be Good
There is still controversy in the exercising community about whether a spa soak after exercise is beneficial. Some scientific sources have recommended against it, saying you should wait at least 24 hours after exercise to warm up your sore, stretched muscles. They suggest using ice packs for sore, after-exercise aching muscles.
Recent studies say soaking in a spa provides necessary relief from muscle and joint pain you may experience after your exercise routine. The warm water of the spa is a far superior pain killer than taking over-the-counter pain medications. Another scientific study says definitively that using heat instead of cold right after exercise is much better. It promotes healing and relieves pain.
For more information about how you can benefit from a spa you already own, or to talk about purchasing a new spa, contact us at Goodall Pool & Spas.
