Swim spas are often equated with swimming laps or rowing. But did you know your swim spa is also the perfect place for stretching and rehabilitation? Adding some stretches to your daily routine not only loosens your limbs after a workout, when done long-term, but it can also increase your overall range of motion. Here are some of our favorite stretches for increasing flexibility from the comfort and warmth of your swim spa.
For the Upper Body
1. Shoulder Rolls
This stretch is a great way to release tension from your neck and shoulders. Begin by sitting comfortably in your spa and then roll your shoulders forward and back in a circular motion. Do 10-15 repetitions and then switch, rolling your shoulders backward.
2. Upper Back Stretch
Stretch your arms out to your sides, shoulder level, and bring your palms together. You can keep your hands flat together or interlace your fingers. Hold for a minimum of 10 seconds for a stress-relieving upper back stretch.
3. Torso Twists
Although this move is great for stretching the sides of your waistline and up your ribcage, it also works to tone and tighten your entire core. Sitting or standing (depending on your preference), hold your arms tightly to your sides. Raise your lower arms up into a bicep curl and hold them there. Then, tighten your stomach muscles and twist left, holding the position for three to five seconds before twisting right. Keep your neck and shoulders relaxed as you twist.
For the Lower Body
1.Calf Extensions
Start by standing with your feet flat on the floor of your swim spa, hands at your waist. Slowly raise up onto your toes, lifting your heels completely off of the floor. Although a simple move, it’s a very effective stretch that also works to tone your calf muscles.
2. Quadricep Stretch
Hold on to the side of your spa for balance and then reach your right hand behind you to grab your right foot. Pull your foot up toward your backside and hold for 20-30 seconds. You should feel a good stretch all the way down your thigh. Repeat the move on your left leg.
3. Knee Hug
Sitting in your spa, bring your knee toward your upper body, holding it with one or both hands. Bringing your leg into your chest will stretch your hip and thigh. Hold for 20 seconds and repeat on the other side.
For the Whole Body
Baby Stretch
1. Hold the edge of your spa, feet flat on the floor and push your hips back. Be sure to keep your back flat and stomach muscles tight as you push backward. You should feel the stretch through your arms, back, hips and legs. Hold the move for 20 seconds and repeat two more times.
Midnight Sun Pools n’ Spas
A swim spa not only offers you great fitness opportunities, but numerous health benefits as well. Here at Midnight Sun Pools n’ Spas, we offer high-quality Bahama Swim Spas and Jacuzzi® Swim Spas, as well as other swim spa models. Contact or visit our showroom to check out the swim spas for sale or to speak to one of our experts. We can help you find the spa of your dreams.
