Why Warm Pools Are Awesome Compared to Regular Pool Temperatures.
Swimming is a fun activity that’s good for your health, whether you’re doing it to work out, relax, or hang out with friends. But have you ever noticed how the temperature of the pool can make a big difference? Warm pools, which are usually kept between 86°F and 92°F (30°C to 33°C), offer some cool benefits compared to regular pools, which are a bit cooler, around 78°F to 82°F (25°C to 28°C). Let’s dive into why warm pools might be your new favorite spot.
Warm Pools Help Soothe Your Muscles and Joints
One of the best things about warm pools is how they make your muscles feel. The warm water helps increase blood flow, which relaxes your muscles and eases any joint pain you might have. This is especially helpful if you have conditions like arthritis. The warmth of the water makes it easier to stretch, too, so you can move better and feel more flexible. The Arthritis Foundation even says that warm water therapy is great for managing arthritis because it reduces pressure on your joints and makes it easier to exercise.
Good for Your Heart
Swimming in warm water can also be great for your heart. The heat causes your blood vessels to open up, improving blood flow and lowering your blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure or other heart-related issues, warm pools can provide a safer and more comfortable environment for exercising. A study found that exercising in warm water can lower your blood pressure and heart rate, making it a good option for a heart-friendly workout.
Burns Calories and Helps with Weight Loss
Even though warm water feels more comfortable, it still gives you a solid workout. In fact, your body burns more calories as it works to cool itself down in warmer water. Swimming regularly in a warm pool can help you lose weight and get fit. Research shows that swimming in warm water can increase how many calories you burn because your body has to work harder to stay cool.
Helps You Sleep Better
Warm pools can also help you get a good night’s sleep. The warm water relaxes your body, making it easier to unwind and fall asleep. Swimming in warm water can also help regulate your body’s internal clock by raising and then lowering your core temperature, signaling to your body that it’s time to sleep. Studies show that taking a dip in warm water before bed can improve the quality and length of your sleep.
Great for Your Mental Health
The calming effects of warm water aren’t just physical; they’re mental too. Swimming in a warm pool can help reduce anxiety and stress, leaving you feeling calm and relaxed. The feeling of floating in warm water can be meditative, helping you focus on your breathing and movements. Research has shown that warm water therapy can significantly reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, making it a great way to boost your mood.
Comparing Warm Pools to Regular Pool Temperatures
While warm pools have a lot of benefits, cooler pools have their perks too, especially if you’re into competitive swimming or intense workouts. Cooler water can help prevent you from overheating during a tough swim, letting you push yourself harder without getting tired as quickly. That’s why many competitive swimmers prefer regular pool temperatures—they can swim faster and longer without feeling too hot.
But if you’re swimming for general fitness, relaxation, or therapy, warm pools are the way to go. They’re more comfortable and better for soothing your muscles, improving heart health, and even boosting your mental well-being.
Wrapping It Up
Warm pools are a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a relaxing and therapeutic swimming experience. While cooler pools might be better for hardcore workouts and sports, the health benefits of warm pools are hard to beat. Whether you’re dealing with joint pain, want to improve your heart health, burn some calories, sleep better, or just reduce stress, a warm pool has you covered.
Sources
1. American Council on Exercise. (2020). *The Impact of Water Temperature on Exercise Performance*. Retrieved from https://www.acefitness.org
2. Journal of Sleep Research. (2018). *Effects of Warm Water Immersion on Sleep Quality*. Retrieved from https://www.onlinelibrary.wiley.com
3. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. (2019). *Aquatic Therapy for Mental Health: A Systematic Review*. Retrieved from https://www.mdpi.com
4. Journal of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation and Prevention. (2021). *Warm Water Aquatic Exercise and Cardiovascular Health*. Retrieved from https://journals.lww.com
5. Arthritis Foundation. (2022). *Warm Water Therapy for Arthritis Relief*. Retrieved from https://www.arthritis.org
6. American Council on Exercise. (2019). *Caloric Burn in Warm vs. Cool Water Swimming*. Retrieved from https://www.acefitness.org
