Families in Colorado Springs are known for their love of outdoor adventures, from hiking in Garden of the Gods to skiing in the nearby Rockies. With such an active lifestyle, many households are turning to at-home wellness solutions like hot tubs and swim spas. Both options offer unique benefits for recovery, fitness, and family time—but which one is the better fit for your family? At Mile High Hot Tubs, we help local families weigh the pros and cons so they can choose the option that matches their needs, space, and budget.
Below, we’ll compare hot tubs and swim spas in detail across four areas: relaxation and recovery, fitness and recreation, space and installation requirements, and family lifestyle benefits.
Relaxation and Recovery
Hot tubs are traditionally designed with relaxation in mind. Compact or large, these spas feature targeted hydrotherapy jets, ergonomic seating, and warm water immersion to reduce stress and ease muscle soreness. According to the National Sleep Foundation, warm-water therapy can also promote deeper, more restorative sleep cycles—something every active family can benefit from after a long day of activities.
Swim spas, on the other hand, provide recovery benefits but with a different focus. They also include hydrotherapy seating in most models, but the water temperature is typically lower when used for swimming, making them less effective for deep relaxation. Families who prioritize end-of-day unwinding or joint relief may find hot tubs a better fit for consistent relaxation.
Best for relaxation: Hot tubs win this category. Their smaller size and higher water temperatures make them ideal for stress relief, muscle recovery, and family bonding at the end of the day.
Fitness and Recreation
Swim spas are designed with exercise in mind. They feature a strong current that allows users to swim in place, creating a full-body workout without needing a large pool. For families with young athletes or parents focused on low-impact exercise, swim spas offer versatility that hot tubs can’t match. A study published in the Journal of Sports Science & Medicine notes that aquatic exercise improves cardiovascular health and reduces injury risk, making swim spas a great fit for active households.
Hot tubs, while excellent for hydrotherapy, aren’t designed for exercise. They can aid in post-workout recovery but don’t provide a workout option themselves.
Best for fitness: Swim spas clearly take the lead. They double as an aquatic gym, perfect for families who want both wellness and recreation at home.
Space and Installation Considerations
In Colorado Springs, yard size varies widely between homes in the city and properties near the foothills. This makes space a critical factor when choosing between a hot tub and a swim spa.
- Hot tubs: Compact models can fit into small yards, patios, or decks, with footprints as small as 6×6 feet. Installation is generally straightforward, and energy-efficient models are easy to maintain year-round.
- Swim spas: These units are significantly larger, often ranging from 12 to 20 feet long. They require more installation planning, a larger yard, and a bigger investment in both equipment and energy use.
For families with limited outdoor space, hot tubs are the more practical option. However, those with larger yards may enjoy the flexibility and added recreation that swim spas provide.
Best for space-conscious families: Hot tubs are easier to install and maintain, making them ideal for smaller Colorado Springs yards.
Family Lifestyle Benefits
Both hot tubs and swim spas offer lifestyle perks that can bring families together.
Hot tubs provide:
- A cozy setting for evening relaxation and conversations
- Hydrotherapy for parents with sore muscles or arthritis
- Stress relief that benefits every member of the family
Swim spas provide:
- Active fun for kids who enjoy splashing and swimming
- Fitness opportunities for parents without leaving home
- Multi-purpose use, from playtime to workouts
Ultimately, the choice depends on what your family values most. If you’re looking for a wellness retreat for bonding and recovery, a hot tub may be best. If you’re seeking a mix of exercise and recreation, a swim spa can offer more versatility.
Best for families overall: Both options shine, but the deciding factor is whether your family prioritizes relaxation (hot tubs) or fitness (swim spas).
Bringing It All Together
For active families in Colorado Springs, both hot tubs and swim spas can be life-enhancing additions to your home. Hot tubs are unbeatable for relaxation, recovery, and fitting into smaller yards, while swim spas offer unmatched exercise opportunities and fun for families with more space.
At Mile High Hot Tubs, we take pride in helping families find the perfect match. Whether you choose the cozy comfort of a hot tub or the dynamic versatility of a swim spa, our team can guide you through model options, installation, and long-term care. With the right choice, your family can enjoy year-round health, connection, and fun—right in your own backyard.
If your family is ready to invest in wellness and create new traditions at home, now is the time to explore both compact hot tubs and versatile swim spas. Mile High Hot Tubs is here to help you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
