As exciting as pregnancy can be, it also presents challenges that may require some lifestyle changes. During this period, health professionals often recommend staying fit and active by adopting a safe workout regimen. With that in mind, a swim spa for prenatal fitness can be helpful, as studies have shown that aquatic exercises can be beneficial for pregnant women.
Why Prenatal Fitness Matters
Your body undergoes many changes during pregnancy. Exercising regularly throughout all three trimesters may help reduce the risk of certain complications and relieve some of the stress and physical discomfort.
The habits you develop during the prenatal stages might even carry over through your postpartum period, which may help minimise symptoms of depression.
Benefits of Staying Active During Pregnancy
So, what exactly does staying active help with? For pregnant women, maintaining a regular exercise routine may result in the following:
- Decreased risk of gestational diabetes
- Reduced back and joint pain
- Improved mood and stress management
- More control over weight gain
- Better sleep quality
Those are just a few examples, as the benefits can vary for each individual. For instance, a study has shown that physically active women tend to experience shorter durations of labour.
Recommended Types of Safe Exercise
When choosing which exercises to perform, you should consult with your doctor first to narrow down your options and determine what’s best for your specific situation. With their guidance, you may be able to continue with your usual routine.
In general, though, low-intensity physical activities and cardiovascular exercises are considered safe for pregnant women. Examples of these include:
- Brisk walking
- Yoga
- Stationary biking
- Swimming
Why Swim Spas Are Ideal for Expecting Mothers
Swimming is a low-impact activity that can be done at any prenatal stage and it can lead to a better quality of life during pregnancy. With that said, having your own swim spa at home may be key to a smoother experience throughout all three trimesters and beyond.
Not only would it eliminate the need to find a pool outside, but a spa’s massaging jets may also potentially help with stress and pain.
Low-Impact Workouts in Water
The extra weight you’re carrying while pregnant can discourage you from working out. Luckily, as a low-impact workout, swimming can lightly raise your heart rate without straining your body too much. On that note…
Buoyancy and Reduced Joint Stress
Floating on water can feel very relieving, especially in the later stages of pregnancy. By swimming or simply immersing yourself in water, you can exercise without putting too much pressure on your back or joints. You’re free to stroke, kick, or stretch while still feeling almost completely weightless.
Relaxation and Stress Relief Benefits
Once you’re done with your aquatic exercises, you can even kick back and relax in your swim spa while you’re cooling down. Just make sure that your spa is set to a safe, lukewarm temperature before you stay and soak for a while.
Safe Swim Spa Exercises for Pregnancy
Apart from swimming, there are plenty of other safe exercises you can do while submerged in a swim spa. Again, make sure to consult with your doctor first before you get started.
Before each workout session, take your time and enter the water slowly to maintain balance. Once you’re ready, here are a few starter exercises you can try:
Walking or Jogging in Place
First, warm up by marching or jogging in place to get your body used to the water’s natural buoyancy. At the same time, the resistance makes this a fairly light endurance and strength workout.
Light Stretching and Mobility Exercises
After warming up, you can try some light stretching with a few sets of squats and lunges. If you’re up for something more active, an aqua aerobics program may prove beneficial in childbirth later on.
If you’re struggling with balance at any point, you can hold on to the side of the swim spa or a pool noodle to support yourself.
Breathing and Relaxation Techniques
At the end of your workout session, take a few deep breaths to cool down and relax. During this time, you can also take advantage of your spa’s built-in features. The gentle massage jets may help soothe your body and promote faster post-workout recovery.
Why Buy a Swim Spa for Prenatal Fitness?
Explore our range of Swim Spas designed for safe, low-impact exercise and everyday wellbeing.
Important Safety Tips for Using a Swim Spa During Pregnancy
Before you use your swim spa, there are a few very important things to keep in mind as an expecting mother. Below are some tips to keep you and your unborn child safe.
Temperature Guidelines for Expecting Mothers
Make sure that the swim spa isn’t too hot. According to experts, immersing yourself in water that’s around 37 degrees Celsius or higher can raise your core temperature. This may lead to various complications no matter what trimester you’re currently in.
For peace of mind, keep your swim spa well under that temperature. Setting the water to around 33 degrees Celsius or lower is generally fine and far from the threshold of risk.
When to Avoid Swim Spa Exercise
It can’t be stressed enough, but always consult a medical professional before you start a prenatal swim spa fitness routine. This also applies to any other exercise program that you may be interested in.
Always stay hydrated before and after taking a dip. If you experience any discomfort or dizziness before or during a session, skip the workout and reach out to your doctor as soon as possible.
You may also want to avoid swimming in general if you’re alone, as you might need assistance getting in and out of the spa.
Choosing the Right Swim Spa for Prenatal Fitness
There are various features to consider when choosing the ideal swim spa for prenatal fitness. For instance, one of Just Spas’ Dual Zone models might be ideal for you if you prefer having a dedicated relaxation spot.
Key Features to Look For
There are some key features that can be incredibly useful throughout your prenatal and postnatal journey. Ample temperature control is one of the most important ones to keep an eye on.
Just Spas’ offerings come packed with a lot of handy features, including some that may appeal to expecting mothers. Our swim spas include the following:
- Smart controls – Each swim spa is equipped with an iTouch pad with iSpa app integration. This lets you adjust the temperature remotely.
- Arctic Insulation technology – With 8 layers of insulation, these spas can efficiently maintain a stable temperature.
- Gentle massage jets – These can help you relax after each workout session.
Swim Spas vs Traditional Pools
Compared to traditional pools, it’s much easier to maintain a safe temperature in a swim spa. Depending on a pool’s placement and the current weather, its water may get too hot or cold, making it risky for pregnant women.
Swim spas are also built with various hydrotherapy features that may help you relax. Just Spas’ swim spas have jets designed to massage one’s legs and back, which many expecting mothers may appreciate.
Home Convenience and Year-Round Use
Having your own swim spa lets you exercise regularly in the comfort of your own home. No need to travel and search for a pool to use, just take a dip whenever you feel like it!
The temperature control and insulation also make it ideal for year-round use. Even if it’s cold out, you can set the spa to a safe, warm temperature with very little effort.
Swim Spas for Expecting Mothers – A Healthy Investment in Wellbeing
Overall, swim spas can be a fantastic tool for expecting mothers. As long as you build healthy habits and take the necessary precautions, having a swim spa at home may help ease some of the physical and emotional challenges of pregnancy.
Even after giving birth, it can support your postpartum journey by acting as a convenient avenue for staying fit and relaxed. Once your doctor gives you the all-clear, you can dive right in for a swim or enjoy the hot tub features that you previously couldn’t.
Support your prenatal journey with comfort and safety in mind. Reach out to your nearest Just Spas store today and our team will help you find the ideal swim spa!
