If you’re planning to create a space for relaxation, exercise, or fun at home, two great options stand out: a full-size swimming pool or a compact swim spa. Each offers its own kind of experience, and at Goodall Pools & Spas, we offer both. So, how do you choose?
The right option comes down to how you want to use the space, how much room you have, and what kind of investment you’re looking to make. Let’s take a closer look at what sets these two choices apart.
How Much Space Do You Need for a Swimming Pool or Swim Spa?
A swimming pool takes up more space, but it also opens up more room for swimming, floating, games, and entertaining. If you’ve got a larger yard and want a place where the whole family—and half the neighborhood—can hang out, a pool might be just what you’re looking for.
Swim spas are compact, all-in-one units that fit in smaller areas. They work well for tighter spaces or homes without the yard space for a traditional pool. Some customers even install them indoors or on patios. If you’re working with limited space, would like a backyard swim area that can be completely secured, or are looking for extra aquatic fitness amenities, a swim spa can still deliver a ton of value.
Swim Spa Health Benefits vs. Pool-Based Exercise
Swimming is one of the best forms of low-impact exercise, and both swimming pools and swim spas offer opportunities to get moving. With a traditional pool, you have the freedom to do laps, play water games, or float and unwind at your own pace.
Swim spas include a built-in current system that lets you swim in place, making them great for stationary workouts. And many models feature hydrotherapy seats with jets, offering added wellness benefits. There are clear swim spa health benefits, but those benefits can also be achieved with a properly designed and heated pool.
Year-Round Swim Spa or Seasonal Swimming Pool?
In a climate like Pennsylvania, your swimming pool will likely see its most active use from late spring through early fall. While heaters and covers can extend the season, pools are generally used during warmer months.
Swim spas are insulated and built for year-round use, even during the colder parts of the year. This makes them a great option for those looking to swim or soak during all four seasons, without seasonal closures.
Installation and Maintenance
Installing a swimming pool is a custom project. As an experienced swimming pool builder, we’ll guide you through design, excavation, permits, and landscaping. It’s a larger commitment, but the result is a one-of-a-kind feature designed specifically for your space.
Swim spas arrive as a finished product and can be installed quickly, sometimes in a day. The setup is simpler, and ongoing maintenance usually involves fewer steps, though both pools and swim spas require attention to water balance, filtration, and care.
Comparing Costs: Swimming Pool vs. Swim Spa Investment
A swimming pool is typically a larger investment upfront and may come with higher energy, maintenance, and repair costs over time. But for families looking for years of backyard fun, it can be well worth it.
Swim spas offer a more compact solution with a lower starting price. If you want a mix of fitness and relaxation that isn’t limited to sunny, warm seasons, a swim spa is a great investment for year-round use.
Still Not Sure? Let’s Talk
As a trusted swimming pool contractor and swim spa store, Goodall Pools & Spas has helped homeowners across Pennsylvania bring their dream backyards to life. We’ll walk you through the pros and cons, ask the right questions, and help you find the best fit for your lifestyle.
Stop by any of our local swimming pool store locations or give us a call—we’re here to help you make a decision you’ll love for years to come.
