Updated 5-18-23, Originally Written August 2019
When we began writing about hot tub exercises a few years ago (see original blog below), we had no idea how much of a “thing” hot tub exercising was going to become. But just google ‘hot tub exercises’ today and you’ll see a wealth of informative links on how effective and helpful spa exercising can be.
Exercises to do in your hot tub (photo: Bullfrog Spas)
Indeed, we spied a recent blog on this topic from one of the world’s best hot tub manufacturers — Bullfrog Spas. (Full disclosure: we sell these spas in one of our three showrooms.)
Dated May 1st, Bullfrog’s post includes a few workouts we missed in our original blog below, so it’s worth adding them here.
Arms
While submerged “up to your neck” in your hot tub, it is recommended stretching out your ams, palms facing down. Then cross your arms over and pull them back to the same position. Repeat this to work your shoulders.
For more arm exercises from Bullfrog Spas, including chest and back, check out their blog here.
Despite these few additions, we’re glad to see that our original blog holds up well. And the exercises we describe are still very popular and are recommended widely.
Additional Benefits
In speaking with a fitness trainer at one point, we learned another good reason for doing low-impact exercising in a hot tub He told us that: “When your muscles are relaxed, you experience less pain and you can move your body in a greater range of motion. Also, when in a hot tub, there is less of an intense sensation due to movement.
Exercising in a hot tub is a good thing
He also added that it is important, however, to do any exercising in a hot tub in a slow, full-range motion so you get the full effect of exercise. To achieve the slow, full-range motion, make sure to extend your muscles and flex completely; this enables muscles to get the full effect of exercise.
Final update note: As Best Hot Tub owner, Bill Renter, says, “According to studies, just chatting away in a hot tub can provide some of the same benefits as doing actual exercise. So, if just sitting in a hot tub can be beneficial, imagine what some actual hot tub exercises can do.”
Read our earlier blog below:
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At Bullfrog Spas, we’ve found that a little education about hot tubs can go a long way when trying to find the perfect hot tub for you. This is why we constantly make guides such as our guide to above-ground spas and our guide to buying a hot tub.
Something we always try to make clear is that the best portable hot tub isn’t so much about what kind of features it has, but whether it meets your needs.
Many people only view hot tubs as a place to sit down and relax. While this is true, above ground hot tubs can also make for excellent exercise environments.
“According to a recent study, just chatting away in a hot tub can provide some of the same benefits as doing actual exercise,” says Bill Renter, owner of Best Hot Tubs. “So, if just sitting in a hot tub can be beneficial, imagine what some actual exercises can do.”
Here is a list of exercises you can use in your hot tub.
Roll Your Shoulders
This is an exercise you can perform in even small hot tubs.
Sitting straight up in your hot tub, begin with light shoulder rolls, both forwards and backwards. With the heat and water resistance of your hot tub, this simple exercise can help with your joint mobility and boost circulation throughout your neck, shoulders, and torso.
Try doing sets of 3 for 30 repetitions.
Work Your Core
In a seated position or gripping the wall with both hands, face inwards towards the center of your above ground hot tub. Bring both knees to your chest and then fully extend your legs slowly.
In order to get the most out of this exercise, you should make sure to keep your back straight and ensure that you don’t bring your shoulders towards your ears.
Try this exercise in sets of 3 for 30 repetitions.
Knee Bends
Begin by standing on one foot in your hot tub or spa. Bring one knee to your chest and back down again. Then do the same with your other leg.
For a more intense cardio workout, rapidly alternate performing this exercise with each leg in a high-knees running motion. This will allow you to use water resistance to help strengthen your abs and legs. If you need to, grab onto the sides of your hot tub for extra stability.
Try for 3 sets of 30 – 60 repetitions.
Torso Crunches
These exercises can be performed while kneeling or sitting.
Submerge your shoulders and cross your arms in front of your torso. Contract your abs and then begin twisting left to right slowly. Proper breathing can help you get the most out of this exercise. Breathe out while twisting to your side and breathe in when you are returning to your starting position.
Try for 3 sets of 20-30 crunches.
Learn More
Above ground hot tubs are a great place to relax and exercise simultaneously. If you wish to learn more about how to get the most out of your hot tub, be sure to check out our blog post on the best hot tub features and accessories.
Note: In addition, you will find our Best Hot Tubs’ showroom staff expert at helping you choose the best spa for you. They can also give you information on our Back-to-School, End of Summer, sale. Up to $1,000 in rebates, etc. If you don’t have a hot tub, or want to upgrade, it’s a terrific opportunity.
Contact Best Hot Tubs here.
