Hot tubs aren’t just for relaxation; they can also double as a low-impact fitness tool that helps with strength, flexibility, and recovery.
Hot tub workouts offer a surprisingly effective and enjoyable way to stay active, ease joint pain, strengthen muscles, or simply get in a calming workout.
Let’s take a look at how you can turn your spa into a mini gym with the right water exercises and supplies.
Why Hot Tub Workouts Are Effective
Hydrotherapy workout has long been praised for its amazing therapeutic benefits. The buoyancy of water works wonders by reducing the impact on your joints while still offering enough resistance to build strength.
In a hot tub, the warm water adds another layer of support by loosening up your muscles and improving circulation.
Hot tub workouts combine the best elements of hydrotherapy with resistance-based movement, making them ideal for a wide range of fitness levels. From light stretching to targeted strength exercises, the water helps minimize injury risk while enhancing overall performance.
Benefits Of Aqua Therapy Exercises
If you’ve ever heard of aqua therapy exercises, you already know how helpful they can be, especially for those with arthritis, joint pain, or limited mobility.
When performed in a hot tub, these exercises become even more beneficial. Warm water relaxes tight muscles, which improves your range of motion and makes stretching easier.
Other benefits include:
- Low-impact strength training
- Improved flexibility and balance
- Reduced muscle soreness
- Enhanced recovery post-injury or surgery
- Stress relief and mental wellness
This is why therapy pool exercises are often recommended by physical therapists for rehab and recovery.
Top Hot Tub Exercises To Try
These hydro exercises are easy to follow and can be adjusted depending on your fitness level. Always start slow and increase intensity as you get comfortable.
Leg Pedals
Sit on the seat of your hot tub and mimic a cycling motion underwater. This exercise strengthens your quads and improves lower-body flexibility.
Calf Raises
Stand in your hot tub, lift your heels off the floor, hold for a second, and slowly lower. It’s a simple move that works your calves and improves balance.
Arm Circles
Extend both arms straight out to your sides and make small circles forward and backward. The water resistance gives your shoulders and upper arms a nice workout.
Torso Twists
Sit upright and gently twist your upper body from side to side. It is a great move for your core and spine mobility.
Water Marching
March in place in your hot tub. You’ll engage your legs, hips, and core without straining your joints.
These are basic but effective exercises in hydrotherapy that can be done with little to no equipment.
Hydro Exercises For Knee And Joint Support
For those with knee pain or recovering from an injury, hydro exercises for knee health are a game-changer. The water supports your body weight, which takes the pressure off your knees while still allowing you to strengthen the surrounding muscles. Some recommended moves are:
- Seated leg extensions
- Underwater hamstring curls
- Gentle knee lifts
Doing these in a hot tub gives your muscles warmth to stretch and recover, which is especially helpful in colder months. Adding these moves can help you transform your regular hot tub into an exercise spa hot tub without spending on major upgrades.
If you’re recovering from surgery or injury, consult a physiotherapist to ensure water exercises are appropriate and tailored to your condition.
Recovery: What To Do Post Workout In The Hot Tub
After you finish your session, a post-workout hot tub routine is key. While you’re already in warm water, take a few minutes to stretch gently and let your body relax. This helps reduce soreness and improves flexibility.
- Deep breathing exercises
- Gentle stretching of arms, legs, and neck
- Hydrate with cool water
- Use a towel to dry off and rest afterward
Taking this time for recovery supports muscle healing and helps you maintain a consistent fitness schedule.
Safety Tips For Hot Tub Fitness
Before starting any workout in the hot tub, it’s important to keep safety top of mind. While the water adds comfort and support, it also brings unique risks that need attention.
- Stay hydrated. Even though you’re surrounded by water, you can still overheat or become dehydrated. Keep a bottle of water nearby and take breaks if you start feeling too warm.
- Limit your sessions. Hot tubs can raise your body temperature quickly. Keep workouts short, about 15 to 20 minutes, to prevent overheating or fatigue.
- Talk to your doctor. If you have any medical conditions, are pregnant, or are new to physical activity, check with a healthcare provider first.
- Check the water temperature. Keep it below 104°F. Anything higher can be dangerous, especially during prolonged physical activity. Always prioritize comfort and listen to your body.
Hot Tubs For Exercise: Worth The Investment?
Using hot tubs for exercise is not just a creative twist on wellness; it’s a highly effective approach for people who want a joint-friendly, calming workout space right at home. Unlike gyms or large pools, a hot tub gives you the freedom to exercise anytime while also offering recovery benefits.
Wrapping It Up
If you’ve been looking for a new way to stay active without straining your joints or needing a gym membership, hot tub workouts are a smart option. You get the combined benefits of hydrotherapy workouts, resistance training, and mental relaxation, all from the comfort of your backyard.
No matter if you’re dealing with chronic pain, recovering from injury, or simply want a more peaceful way to move, aqua therapy exercises offer a practical solution. Just grab your gear, set a timer, and ease into a fitness routine that feels more like self-care than work.
Ready to turn your spa into a wellness tool?
Browse the selection at Spas of Colorado and buy hot tubs in Colorado Springs.
With a few stretches and the soothing power of your hot tub, you can upgrade your workout routine. We have a wide range of hot tubs and spas in Colorado Springs from well-known brands.
