Swimming when there’s snow on the ground? It might seem like an activity that’s reserved for the annual polar plunge or those who choose to practice cold water therapy. The images of people in cute beanies smiling as they wade in the water might make winter swimming seem enjoyable. However, the reality of getting in cold water and swimming is far different.
Renowned cold water swimmer Lewis Pugh, who swam in Antarctica in just trunks, describes it as “a violent physical assault” on the body. The cold water can affect your blood pressure and make it harder to breathe. And while there are benefits of cold water immersion, among them combating the winter blues, it is not for the faint of heart or ideal for recreational swimming.
But you just don’t have to give up your swim routine just because winter has set in — membership to a local pool not required.
Specially designed swim-in-place pools, like Michael Phelps Signature Swim Spas, are designed to be used year-round. While your neighbors aren’t likely to head to their in-ground swimming pools when there is snow on the ground, you will be able to enjoy a 12-month swimming season.
Swim-in-place pool
Swimming is an activity that involves moving through the water using your arms and legs. We often think of swimming as going from Point A to Point B, whether it’s from the beach to a buoy in open water. Or, in the pool, you are swimming from one side of the pool to the other, lap after lap.
A swim-in-place pool is different, though. You are moving your arms and legs in the same swimming motion. However, you aren’t going anywhere. You are swimming against a water current, whether it’s generated by jets or a propulsions system.
Michael Phelps Signature Swim Spas feature the Wave XP Pro System, which produces an endless swimming current. The current is smoother, deeper, and wider when compared to other systems, providing a superior swim in place experience.
But how do you go swimming in the winter?
It’s as simple as walking outside and opening up the swim spa cover. Regardless of the time or day, you can hop in the water.
A Michael Phelps swim spa is a self-contained unit that has full foam insulation and a heating system. Its energy-efficient design, which includes a lockable cover, allows it to be used year-round. The design keeps the heat in and the elements out. Users can set the temperature of the water using the touchscreen panel.
Exercising in winter
Shorter days and colder temperatures can make it challenging to get out of the house to do what you have to do. It can be even harder to motivate yourself to exercise, whether it’s outdoors or inside — especially when curling up on the couch with a blanket is so inviting.
However, there are benefits to getting active and staying active throughout the winter months.
Exercising in the winter will help you stay energized and improve your mood. Some studies have shown, too, that swimming can help reduce symptoms of depression. If you are outdoors, you will have a chance to get some much needed vitamin D. Known as the sunshine vitamin, it helps keep your bones healthy and is important to overall health.
Another bonus of exercising outdoors in the winter is that it’s a way to overcome that “stir crazy” feeling. While it’s comfortable indoors, you might be fighting boredom or anxiety being indoors for days on end.
A Michael Phelps swim spa in your backyard will invite you to swim and play outdoors, regardless of the season. It’s also a safe way to spend some family time, helping everyone have an outlet for their energy.
If you are struggling to fit in workout sessions during the colder months, there are ways to stay motivated.
- Find a workout or accountability buddy
- Sign up for an event, like a triathlon or long-distance open-water swim
- Focus on the mental health benefits
- Try different workouts, whether it’s swimming or aqua aerobics
- Download a fun playlist and go for “just’ 10 minutes
Winter swim spa tips
Swim team members and Master swimmers already know that there’s no true swim season. So long as you can get in the water, it’s a great season for swimming.
However, many people associate swimming with summer — whether it be in a lake or in-ground pool.
With a Michael Phelps swim spa, you can swim in the winter, without having to bundle up and head to the gym. A backyard swim spa can be used year-round for swimming, water exercise, and relaxation.
But while your water will be at the perfect temperature, there are some precautions to take when the air temp is chilly.
Bundle up
Often, the chilliest part of using your Michael Phelps swim spa in the winter is getting in. It’s important to dress warmly as you head out to your swim-in-place pool. Put on a cozy robe and slippers that have a rubber sole.
Wear a cap
Heat escapes from your head so it’s important to keep it covered when you use your spa. If you are enjoying a winter swimming session, be sure to wear a nice swim cap. If you plan to do some water aerobics or soak for relaxation, put on a beanie.
Water temperature
When you are exercising or swimming in the winter, there might be the temptation to turn up the water temperature. However, you need to be mindful that you can still overheat in the winter. Most swimming pools have a water temperature in the low 80s. However, for winter swimming in a Michael Phelps swim spa, you might prefer a temperature of 88 degrees. But turning up the temperature higher might be uncomfortable. Be aware of your body and make sure that you don’t feel flushed between sets.
Try a wetsuit
If you are a triathlete or enjoy open water swimming, winter is a great time to practice wearing your wetsuit. While most of your body will be in the water, your posterior chain might be on the surface and subject to the air temperature. A sleeveless wetsuit can help you maintain range of motion in your arms while keeping warm. If you do plan to wear a wetsuit, be sure to adjust the water temperature accordingly.
How to buy a swim-in-place pool?
Are you ready to enjoy the benefits of swimming, recreation, and relaxation year-round — even in the winter? Having a Michael Phelps Signature Swim Spa at home allows you to enjoy the benefits of a pool without the maintenance. You can click here to get more backyard ideas and picture what a Michael Phelps Signature Swim Spa would look like in your space. Or, contact your local Master Spas retailer to learn more about swim spa ownership. Wondering how much a Michael Phelps swim spa costs? You can request a quote here.