Uncategorized Archives - Thursday Pools

What is LSI?

Posted on April 9, 2024April 10, 2024 by kristin

What is LSI?

When it comes to maintaining the sparkling allure of your fiberglass pool, understanding the nuances and importance of pool water chemistry is paramount. Among the various metrics and tests available, the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) is a critical yet often overlooked aspect of pool care. This post aims to demystify LSI and explain its importance in keeping your fiberglass pool in top condition for years to come.

What is the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI)?

Developed in the 1930s by Dr. Wilfred Langelier, the Langelier Saturation Index offers a precise, unbiased measure of your pool water’s balance. Ultimately, LSI assesses how saturated water is with calcium carbonate, a component crucial for maintaining the integrity and appearance of your pool. The index provides a clear, numeric value that reflects your water’s balance, with perfectly balanced, neutral water having a zero LSI value.

Maintaining your pool water within a range of -0.3 to +0.3 on the scale is acceptable, as it prevents the water from damaging the fiberglass surface. For saltwater pools, a slightly tighter range of -0.2 to +0.2 is recommended to account for the unique chemistry of saltwater systems.

Why is LSI Important for Your Fiberglass Pool?

Understanding and managing the LSI of your pool water is critical for several reasons:

Preventing Scale Formation: If the LSI is too high, it indicates your water is overly saturated with calcium carbonate. This condition leads to scale formation, as the water attempts to return to a balanced state by depositing excess minerals onto your pool’s surfaces and equipment. Not only does this affect the aesthetic appeal of your pool, but it can also hinder the efficiency of your pool’s filtration system.

Avoiding Corrosion and Damage: On the flip side, a low Langelier Saturation Index value indicates corrosive water that can pose a significant threat to the integrity of your fiberglass pool. Corrosive water can lead to chalking, a form of damage where the fiberglass gel coat surface begins to deteriorate. This damage not only affects the pool’s appearance but can also compromise its surface integrity over time.

Holistic Water Balance Approach: While keeping individual chemical levels within recommended ranges is essential, focusing solely on ranges and levels doesn’t provide a complete picture of your pool’s health. The Langelier Saturation Index offers an unbiased, comprehensive, and holistic view of your pool’s chemistry and water balance. By maintaining a balanced LSI, you ensure the longevity and durability of your fiberglass pool, protecting your investment and ensuring it remains a source of joy and relaxation for years to come.

How to Balance Your Pool Water Using LSI

Balancing your pool water’s LSI involves monitoring and adjusting several factors, including pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness, temperature, and total dissolved solids. Here are some tips to help you maintain an optimal LSI:

Regular Testing: Use reliable test kits to frequently check the key factors affecting LSI levels. This process will help you identify any imbalances early on so you can take corrective action.

Adjust Chemical Levels: Based on your test results, adjust the levels of pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness as needed to bring your pool water within the ideal LSI range.

Consider Pool Temperature: Remember that water temperature affects LSI, with warmer water tending to be more scale-forming. Adjust your maintenance routine seasonally to account for temperature changes.

Professional Consultation: If you’re unsure about adjusting your pool’s chemistry, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. A pool maintenance expert can provide tailored recommendations based on your pool’s specific conditions.

Check out this article for a step-by-step approach to using Orenda’s helpful LSI calculator app to balance your pool water.

The Langelier Saturation Index is more than just a number; it’s a comprehensive guide to maintaining the beauty and integrity of your fiberglass pool. By understanding and managing your pool’s LSI, you’re not just caring for the water. You’re preserving the entire pool experience, ensuring it remains a safe, enjoyable, and beautiful oasis for many years. As part of your broader fiberglass pool maintenance strategy, mastering LSI empowers you to take proactive steps towards pristine water quality and pool longevity.

Large and Deep Fiberglass Pool Options

Posted on March 28, 2024 by Karen

Pool owners love fiberglass pools for many reasons. Fiberglass pools are low-maintenance, quick to install and require fewer chemicals. Because fiberglass pools don’t have liners to replace or concrete that will eventually need to be replastered, they have the lowest lifetime cost of ownership over vinyl and gunite pools. They also have a smooth, durable finish that’s totally pet friendly, making them a sure bet for everyone in the family to love.

So why would anyone choose anything other than fiberglass? Well, there really aren’t too many reasons! However, for pool buyers looking for a large inground pool, the options in fiberglass are somewhat limited. Whereas gunite and vinyl pools are built on-site, fiberglass pools are made in a factory, out of a mold, and then transported in one piece to the home of their lucky new pool owners. There’s a limit to the size of what can be safely loaded, unloaded and transported, and on-site physical barriers like fences and trees also have to be taken into consideration for delivery.

Alas, there are some large fiberglass pool options that allow swimming pool owners the best of both worlds–big and low-maintenance. For your convenience, we have created comparison charts of large pools by various manufacturers in both rectangular and freeform shapes. While there are many similarities, certain aspects may be more appealing to you.

While large and deep fiberglass pools offer more than ample swim area for families, not everyone needs that much depth. If you want a pool that’s still generously sized but maybe not quite so deep, check out Thursday Pools models like Goliath, Aspen, or the Cathedral LX. With so many amazing options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect pool for you!

How Much Does a Fiberglass Pool Cost in Utah?

Posted on October 12, 2021April 3, 2024 by krista

Utah’s motto is “industry.” When survival was challenging the state’s pioneers, it took the industry to tame Utah’s wilderness. The times in Utah may not be as tough today, but industry can still yield great things – a backyard inground pool. So, how much does a fiberglass pool cost in Utah?

First, it’s helpful to know the viability of a fiberglass pool and a few of the particulars of the region. Depending on where you’re located in the Beehive state, you may have a pool season that stretches five months or more. Just how long depends on your proximity to the mountains or the desert or the Great Salt Lake. The bottom line is, you can absolutely install an inground fiberglass pool in Utah.

What is the best type of pool to get in Utah?

As you shop for a pool in Utah, you’ll probably discover there are different types of pools. You probably knew this, but if you’re not shopping, it’s likely something you hadn’t given much thought. We think it’s useful to compare the options and consider the factors that make a fiberglass pool a great value versus gunite(concrete) and vinyl pools. Here are just a few great features of fiberglass pools:

Maintenance. Fiberglass pools are easy to own and maintain. The sandstone-based soil of much of Utah can shrink and swell with varying conditions. An inground fiberglass pool, equipped with the Geo-Anchoring system, can deal with that variability.
Toughness. Fiberglass pools degrade less than gunite and vinyl. The smooth gel coat surface that is easy on swimsuits and tender feet is also tough enough to tolerate the claws of a dog-paddling black Lab.
Designed. Fiberglass pools design features built-in! These can include tanning ledges, wrap-around benches, and even beach entries—all usually built around a wide-open swimming space!

How much does it cost to put in a pool in Utah?

If Utahans are indeed industrious, the features within the value proposition of a fiberglass pool are appealing. So what about the bottom line cost? It will depend on your neighborhood, topography and a host of other factors, but we can estimate based on our broad experience in western and mountain states that an inground fiberglass pool would come in at between $1,600-$1,800 per linear foot. If that doesn’t give you a clear enough picture, check out the following Thursday Pools designs and their average cost to install.

Goliath

The Goliath serves up extra space if you’ve got a big family (or lots of neighbors and friends visiting). Add a slide. Or a basketball goal. It’s an excellent pool for game time and creates a fun backyard atmosphere. The smallest size is 33.6 feet long by 16 feet wide. At an average cost of $1,500 per linear foot, a basic installation might run around $50,400.

Lil Bob

Our Lil Bob fiberglass pool design might be just the ticket if space is limited and your family is very active. The Lil Bob is 27.5 feet long by 13.5 feet wide. At an average cost of $1,500 per linear foot, a basic installation would be $41,250.

Cathedral

The Cathedral is a timeless classic with stylish curves. It’s a great combination of wide-open swim space and gracious seating areas. The Cathedral comes in at 14 feet wide by 33.5 feet long. Applying our formula of an average cost of $1,500 per linear foot, a basic installation would be $50,250.

Are there any hidden costs in pool installation?

As we always stress, every installation is different. Utah state law requires a barrier fence that’s at least six feet tall with no openings greater than four inches. A fence may be something you want anyway, but the example illustrates the point that variability exists. Seven examples of potential hidden costs, detailed more thoroughly in this blog, include:

Site Preparation – roots, rocks/stones, irrigation systems, and utilities are just a few of the considerations.
Access – pool installers have trucks, earthmovers, and cranes, and they need access to your backyard.
Permits – municipalities have different permitting and construction site requirements. It’s important to know yours.
Fencing – as we mentioned above, fencing and pool safety covers may be a nice-to-have, or they may be a must-have, per state ordinance.
Restoration – pool installation is a big construction project, and sometimes that means significant clean-up and restoration.
Electrical – is your backyard wired? Is your pool installer estimating and doing the work themselves or through a subcontractor?
Dirt Hauling – to drop that backyard pool in there, you might be removing the equivalent of a one or two-car garage volume of dirt!

This is a good list to keep handy. Always keep an open line of communication with your dealer so you both are clear on the scope of your installation and the final cost. One thing to note: some work, like restoration or fencing, could be performed as a separate project with its own financing. Creativity in putting together a cost plan can get your pool plan together more quickly with less immediate strain on the pocketbook.

Can you have a pool in Utah?

As you can see, Thursday Pools has pool designs to fit a wide range of Utahn budgets. And we’ve got the know-how to work with you and your dealer to find the pool that fits your budget, your yard size, and your family’s personality.

Pool Cost Calculator

Are you ready to soak in the sun in your new Thursday Pool? You can get a free estimate by answering just a few questions, or contacting your local Thursday Pools dealer for more information.

How To Close An Inground Pool

Posted on September 23, 2021October 28, 2021 by krista

For some, it’s a season of denial, but when that first multi-hued leaf hits the water, it’s hard to ignore the reality that it’s fast becoming time to close the pool. If you’re in a temperate climate, you’ll want to winterize your pool to set yourself up for continued enjoyment when the weather is warmer. Whether closing an above-ground pool or an inground pool, many of the same principles apply. However, your regimen and costs may vary if you are closing a vinyl or gunite inground pool. For a more in-depth comparison of fiberglass vs vinyl vs gunite, download our free eBook. In this post, we will cover how to close an inground pool that is fiberglass.

STEPS TO AN INGROUND FIBERGLASS POOL CLOSING

1. Set a date. Get it on your calendar, and if you need to get on the schedule for pool service, it’s wise to make an appointment as early as possible before the time slots fill up.
2. Balance your water chemistry. Even if you’ve hired a pool service company, there are likely tasks you should perform in advance. One is making sure you’ve established proper water chemistry. That includes checking and balancing for alkalinity, pH, free chlorine, calcium hardness, salt, stabilizer, metals, and dissolved solids. Note: the “eyeball test” will not cut it. Water that is pristine in appearance can still be harmful or out of balance. That’s why we test. Keep in mind that balance also refers to the neutrality of the water, meaning you don’t want water that is too acidic (can cause corrosion) or too basic (can cause scaling/deposit buildup). Your Thursday Pools Owner’s Manual is a great resource for recommended water chemistry levels.
  NOTE: do not treat your fiberglass pool with calcium hypochlorite because the percent of free chlorine is so high that it can damage the pool surface.
3. Wipe down the scum line. Otherwise known as the “water line” or “tile line,” the “scum line” is a result of body oils, lotions, and environmental contaminants that float on the surface of pools and leave a mark that is usually harmless but doesn’t look good. This blemish could become a bigger problem if left unattended. Note: Be gentle. Use a light touch with a wiping cloth or brush – don’t scrape – to preserve the gel coat of your pool.
4. Clean. Give your pool a final skim, vacuum, clean the filter baskets, and backwash the filter before the pool service company arrives. (The General gave us a good primer on backwashing and the ins and outs of a sand filter)
5. Add winterizing chemicals. Add the final chemicals in your winterizing process the day before your service company arrives, allowing time for the chemicals to take effect before their arrival. If your water is properly balanced, no additional chlorine is necessary. With no swimmer use and cooler water temperatures, chlorine demand over the winter months remains very low.
6. Tidy up. We’ve talked mostly about chemicals up to this point. Organize and store those chemicals tightly and securely in a well-ventilated space, with special care not to place caustic chemicals too close to each other. In addition, tidy up your pool accessories, toys, and furniture. This could include pulling out ladders, diving boards, and other fixtures and checking them for wear and tear. If you have a secured or immovable element, like a slide, it’s a good idea to give it a protective wax that will set it up for continued use in the spring.
7. Cover it. We recommend automatic pool covers for safety, security, and pool hygiene. If you get an automatic pool cover, you will be pleased with its contribution to a quality pool closing.

FAQ. A lot of new customers ask, “Should I drain my inground pool for the winter?” The answer is absolutely not. You risk structural damage if you drain your pool of water. Professional pool installers take great care to reduce the abundance of hydrostatic pressure from groundwater, but it is always there, and water in the pool counterbalances that external pressure. Recent technological innovations can lessen the impact of groundwater.

If you must remove some water from your pool or if water is captured on top of your pool cover, drain it away from the deck, and be careful to leave water in the pool above the skimmer level. If you absolutely must drain the water completely from your pool, please consult with a professional. That can protect you against voiding your warranty.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO CLOSE A POOL?

The cost of closing a pool will vary based on your area, but a national average is around $250. For reference, here are monthly cost estimates of pool chemicals:

pH increaser/decreaser $10/mo
Calcium hardness increaser $20/mo
Stabilizer (cyanuric acid) $15/mo
Sanitizer (chlorine) $20/mo
Shock $80/mo
Algaecide $12/mo

As previously mentioned, the costs will vary based on your geography, your commitment to regular maintenance, your vigilant use of a pool cover, and other factors. If you’re still pondering questions like “how much shock will I need for my pool?”, we have a guide that provides some size/cost ratios on the most used chemicals.

BOTTOM LINE

Winterizing or closing your pool for the season is part of a disciplined approach to pool ownership. The season, and a period of disuse, can have negative consequences for your pool. By keeping a regular maintenance schedule all year long and giving special attention to a proper seasonal closing, you can keep your inground fiberglass pool in good shape for many years to come.

Fiberglass Pool vs. Vinyl Pool – Which is Better For You?

Posted on September 9, 2021May 5, 2022 by krista

An inground pool is a big purchase—one that involves changing your living space and your current routines—so, of course, you want to understand all of your options (meaning vinyl vs. fiberglass vs. concrete pools). And if you’re here, it means you’ve either narrowed your choices down to vinyl or fiberglass or are attempting to do so. Either way, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’ll discuss a fiberglass pool vs vinyl pool.

Overview

Pros and Cons: Fiberglass vs Vinyl

Fiberglass

Pros:
Quick installation time
Most comfortable on your feet
Resistant to algae growth
High resale value
Pet Friendly

Cons:
Limited customization options
Higher upfront cost

Vinyl

Pros:
Low installation cost
Relatively quick to install
Resistant to algae growth
Customization

Cons:
More prone to damage/weathering
Harder to incorporate features, such as steps and tanning ledges
More financial investment over time
Low resale value
Not pet friendly

HOW THEY ARE MADE & INSTALLED

Both vinyl and fiberglass have relatively quick installation times, with vinyl about four to eight weeks and fiberglass about three weeks on average. An inground vinyl pool is 100% crafted on the job site, while fiberglass pool shells are manufactured at a designated facility based on a mold. Being created from a mold means more quality control and quicker installation. Once the pool shell is made and delivered, it is placed into the pre-dug hole and leveled. Following this are various processes, including plumbing, electrical equipment, decking, and coping.

Vinyl pool installation takes place directly on the job site, starting with the wall panels, which are typically constructed with steel or plastic. The pool floor is then made with poured concrete, and this also serves as a base for the walls to connect. A blend of vermiculite, cement, and water or a blend of sand, cement, and water is used to create the pool bottom. The entire surface is then covered with the vinyl liner and a vacuum is used to suction the liner into place. Plumbing, electrical equipment, decking, and coping follow suit.

HOW MUCH EACH POOL COSTS

Comparing vinyl pool cost to fiberglass pool cost is a fair comparison, as they both have lower upfront costs than a concrete pool would. However, vinyl liner pools can be less expensive than fiberglass by around $10 to 15,000. Fiberglass pricing will vary depending on many factors, so it’s always best to get a quote from an installation professional.

HOW LONG DOES EACH POOL TYPE LAST

The structure of a vinyl liner pool has the potential to last for decades, but the liner wears more quickly and is subject to tearing (especially if you have dogs who like to swim), so it will need to be replaced. Groundwater underneath the pool can cause other potential issues with the liner, such as floating. While one of the advantages of vinyl liner pools is their ability to be customized, customization also adds to the overall price of the pool. The unique shapes can also hike up repair prices as it becomes more complicated to overlay the liner. The likelihood of this pool type being damaged can also decrease your home’s resale value on the market.

When it comes to fiberglass, its rigid but flexible structure allows for maximum durability, meaning fiberglass pools can last a lifetime. This is where quality control in production really matters. Using a mold means fewer mistakes in the pool’s structure, and thick, even layers of gel coat make the pool more resistant to scratches and other surface damage. Innovations in fiberglass pool structures, such as the Backfill Eliminator™, help prevent groundwater accumulation and its associated issues. Maintenance and wear-and-tear repair end up costing you significantly less in the long run. And, in contrast to vinyl, fiberglass pools can increase your home’s value.

EACH POOL TYPE’S SAFETY

No matter which pool you choose, we will always shout from the rooftops: “Be careful! Accidents can happen!” Anyone entering or exiting a pool should practice caution. However, fiberglass does a great job of keeping swimmers of all shapes, sizes and species safe as they enter and exit the pool. Non-skid texture applied to the fiberglass pool’s horizontal surfaces along with its algae resistance make it less slippery, and therefore, safer. Features such as multiple entry and exit points, toe ledges and swim outs add both style and safety to a fiberglass pool, and are great for both kids (and pets!) who are learning to swim.

Vinyl pools provide a great, smooth surface for your feet that feels fantastic, but smooth plus water can equal dangerous slips and falls. The potential tears we mentioned before can also pose safety risks for your fur babies, so you’ll have to keep an eye out.

PROBLEMS WITH FIBERGLASS POOLS

So, what are the problems associated with fiberglass pools? Not to toot our own horn here, but fiberglass tends to fare well across the board when it comes to pool durability, maintenance, and safety. Where fiberglass falls short is in custom design and upfront costs. As mentioned previously, fiberglass pools are manufactured based on a mold, meaning that the design of that pool is set in stone. Along with the obvious customization options like shape and placement and design of features (i.e., steps or tanning ledges), fiberglass is also often limited in capacity. Fiberglass pools don’t get much wider than 16 feet and are generally less than 44 feet long (with some exceptions) due to transportation limitations, while pools built onsite can be much larger.

PROBLEMS WITH VINYL LINER POOLS

While vinyl pools have their perks, they also have their pitfalls. This is particularly true with regard to their durability and overall lifetime value. You can’t discuss the potential issues of a vinyl liner pool without strongly emphasizing their tendency to wear and tear by nature, meaning that the liners need to be replaced fairly often (8-12 years on average with excellent pool care). And because a liner can be torn or punctured, these pools are not the best option if you would like your pets to join you for a swim. It’s also important to consider if you want to have a tanning ledge or lounge area in your pool—these features are more difficult to incorporate into a vinyl pool design.

Both pool types have their advantages and disadvantages, so what you choose will depend on your situation and what you are looking for in a pool. If you are looking for a quick-to-install pool with boundless shape and size options and lower upfront costs, then a vinyl liner may be right for you. If you’re wanting a pool that’s lower maintenance, less likely to need repairs, quick to install, and is both comfortable and safe for you and your pets, then fiberglass is calling your name!

If you are leaning towards fiberglass, first of all, we’d just like to say, “Yay!” But more importantly, check out our resources that may help plan your pool journey. Our inground pool cost estimator can give you a ballpark amount for how much your pool project may cost, and our pool selector tool helps you discover which shape and size pool will best accommodate your needs. A local fiberglass pool dealer is always an excellent resource for any questions you may have and is always our number one recommendation.

How Much Do Fiberglass Pools Cost in South Carolina?

Posted on January 16, 2020March 28, 2024 by krista

It’s time for a South Carolina roll call. Myrtle Beach! Columbia! Greenville! Charleston! Wherever you are in South Carolina, the weather makes year-round enjoyment of a backyard pool possible. An inground fiberglass pool is a great investment in the full enjoyment of your home, so where do you start your research? No matter where you are in the Palmetto State, your first question when you’re researching a fiberglass pool is probably, “How much does a fiberglass pool cost in South Carolina?”

Where is the value in a fiberglass pool?

Before jumping into the cost of a fiberglass pool, it’s worth considering why you would have interest in a fiberglass pool. In other words, what makes a fiberglass pool a great value versus gunite and vinyl? Here are a few of the best things about fiberglass pools:

Low maintenance. Fiberglass pools are easier to own and maintain versus alternatives like gunite (concrete) and vinyl. The smooth, gel coat surface holds bacteria and algae at bay—meaning you spend less time brushing and use fewer chemicals over the lifetime of owning the pool.
Durability and practicality. Fiberglass pools are less prone to degradation than gunite and vinyl. The surface is easy on swimsuits and tender feet. And it’s pet-friendly!
Feature-rich. Fiberglass pools offer an array of innovative features like built-in tanning ledges, wrap-around benches and even beach entries—usually built around wide-open swimming space!

What’s the cost of an inground fiberglass pool in South Carolina?

We’ve discussed what makes a fiberglass pool such a great value. So now, let’s talk about cost. Your neighborhood, topography, and other factors may play a role in assigning a dollar value to your pool, but we can ballpark a cost. In South Carolina, you could estimate an inground fiberglass pool at approximately $1,500 per linear foot. If that doesn’t give you a clear enough picture, check out the following Thursday Pools designs and their average cost to install.

Sun Day

If you’re after the graceful curves of a freeform pool, our Sun Day design might be the perfect complement to your backyard. It’s available in three sizes with a maximum length of 39 feet. The smallest size is 30 feet long by 15 feet wide. At an average cost of $1,500 per linear foot, a basic installation might run around $45,060.

Lil Bob

If your family is very active and loves to play, our Lil Bob fiberglass pool design might fit the bill. The Lil Bob is 27.5 feet long by 13.5 feet wide. At an average cost of $1,500 per linear foot, a basic installation would be $41,250.

Aspen

If you have a large yard and truly want the best of both worlds— wide-open swim space and lots of built-in spots for relaxing—Aspen is the pool for you. With a built-in, 12”-deep tanning ledge, you’ll have the perfect perch to watch over the kiddos while they swim. The Aspen is available in three sizes. Let’s check out the largest, which is 40 feet long by 16 feet wide. Applying our formula of an average cost of $1,500 per linear foot, a basic installation would be $60,072.

Are there any hidden costs in pool installation?

As we always stress, every installation is different. Occasionally things will appear in your installation that a basic ballpark estimate might not have considered. A perfect example of this would be in Richland County, where safety/security fences are required at home pools. A fence may be something you want anyway, but the example illustrates the point that variability exists. Seven examples of potential hidden costs, detailed more thoroughly in this blog, are as follows:

Site Preparation – roots, rocks, irrigation systems, and utilities are just a few of the considerations.
Access – pool installers have trucks, earthmovers, and cranes, and they need access to your backyard.
Permits – municipalities have different permitting and construction site requirements. It’s important to know yours.
Fencing – as we mentioned above, fencing and pool safety covers may be a nice-to-have, or they may be a must-have, per local ordinance.
Restoration – it’s a big construction project, and sometimes that means significant clean-up and restoration.
Electrical – is your backyard wired? Is your pool installer estimating and doing the work themselves or through a subcontractor?
Dirt Hauling – to drop that backyard pool in there, you might be removing the equivalent of a one or two-car garage volume of dirt!

This is a good list to keep handy. Always keep an open line of communication with your dealer so you both are clear on the scope of your installation and the final cost. One thing to note: some work, like restoration or fencing, could be performed as a separate project with its own financing. Creativity in putting together a cost plan can get your pool plan together more quickly with less immediate strain on the pocketbook.

Can you have a pool in South Carolina?

As you can see, Thursday Pools has pool designs to fit every budget. And we’ve got the experience to work with you and your dealer to find the pool that fits your budget, your yard size, and your family’s personality. We maintain a tight relationship with our dealers and provide dealers and pool buyers with the tools they need for every step of the process.

Pool Cost Calculator

Are you ready to soak in the sun in your new Thursday Pool? You can get a free estimate by answering just a few questions or talk to your local dealer for more information.

Reap the Health Benefits of Exercise in Your New Fiberglass Pool

Posted on January 9, 2020March 28, 2024 by krista

Get healthy and have more fun this year in a new fiberglass pool.

If your goals for the new year include getting healthier and more fit, a new inground fiberglass pool might be just the thing to help you accomplish those goals. Water exercise has loads of health benefits, including weight loss, increased strength and muscle tone, joint pain relief, improved cardiovascular health, reduced stress, and increased fun (which is also very good for you!)

Choose a fiberglass pool that’s designed for water exercise—one that has wide-open swim lanes and is deep enough to accommodate both lap swimming and water aerobics. You’ll be crushing your health and fitness goals before you know it!

Let’s take a look at all the amazing health benefits of swimming exercise:

Weight loss.

According to Prevention magazine, swimming just 30 minutes can burn between 300-400 calories. Compare that to just 100 calories burned for 30 minutes of brisk walking, and it’s easy to see why swimming is a great choice for folks who want to lose weight. (Not to mention the fact that you’re in the pool cooling off instead of sweating during your workout!)

Increased strength and muscle tone.

According to Livestrong.com, swimming laps in an inground pool is a great full-body workout. Swimming works your back and shoulders, as well as major muscle groups in your legs and hips. It’s a great core workout as well, particularly when you’re swimming freestyle or doing the backstroke. And if you aren’t feeling like laps, even treading water helps build muscle and strength because the water offers resistance as you move through it. As you gain strength and endurance, you can add water exercises to get even more results.

Joint pain relief.

Aquatic therapy is an excellent pain management tool for anyone with arthritis, chronic joint pain their backs, knees, hips or necks, or anyone trying to rehabilitate from an injury. An article on PainScience.com suggests that even floating in a swimming pool provides joint pain relief because the water offers relief from gravity, allowing joints and muscles to feel cushioned and safe. Aqua-jogging and other water aerobics reduce inflammation and combine the benefits of reduced joint impact, muscle development and pain relief.

Improved cardiovascular health.

Studies have shown that swimming lowers blood pressure, which in turn, can reduce the chances of heart attacks and strokes. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), regular cardiovascular exercise, like swimming, also lowers “bad” cholesterol levels, which decreases heart attack risk.

Reduced stress.

Harvard Medical School’s online journal addresses how aerobic exercise reduces the body’s stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol. Exercise also stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers and mood elevators, which means you’ll feel better physically and mentally.

Increased fun!

In addition to being a super healthy choice for you, swimming is just plain fun! There’s nothing like the feeling of splashing around in the water, spending quality time with your friends and family and letting the cares of the day fade away. There are tons of games you can play in the pool, and you’ll still get some exercise while you’re having fun! Plus, if you’re having fun while you’re exercising, you’re much more likely to keep doing it. That’s what you call a win-win.

Ready to take the plunge?

If you’re ready to experience all the amazing health benefits of swimming in your own, private backyard oasis, it’s time to take the plunge with a low-maintenance, inground fiberglass pool of your very own. After just a few months of exercising in your pool, you’ll feel better, look better and be happier! Fiberglass pools are an investment that pays off in every way.