The mental and physical relaxation and restoration that a hot tub delivers may create the temptation to use it constantly, especially if it’s a recent purchase. But is that a bad thing?
The question of whether or not frequent hot tub use is unhealthy depends on a few different factors, including:
- Length of time spent in the hot tub in each sitting
- Water temperature
- Overall frequency of use
Length of time spent in the hot tub in each sitting
How long is too long to be in a hot tub? You might love luxuriating in the warm, jetted waters for as long as an hour, but it’s not recommended that you stay in for extended periods of time for safety reasons. About 15-30 minutes at a time is a general recommendation if you prefer very hot water. Hot tub sessions that go 30 minutes or longer increase your risk of negative effects of a hot tub on the body, so adjust your water temperature accordingly.
Some possible negative effects of extended use of a hot tub with very warm water include:
- Headache
- Dehydration
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Dry skin
- Overheating (hyperthermia)
Water Temperature
If you prefer taking longer soaks, turn the temperature down a few degrees to avoid the potentially dangerous effects of staying in a hot tub too long. Keep in mind that 98.6 degrees is a typical normal body temperature. Water above that temperature will begin to elevate your core body temperature accordingly. The closer to 98.6 degrees, the longer you can safely soak.
These guidelines are especially important for pregnant women, children, people with medical conditions such as high blood pressure, and people on certain medications.
Overall frequency of use
People enjoying a new hot tub or considering purchasing one frequently ask “How often can I use a hot tub?” The answer is you can really use it as often as you want if you’re following the recommendations discussed above and keeping up with regular cleaning and maintenance.
Your hot tub needs to run at regular intervals to help keep it clean and ready for use anyway, so don’t be afraid to use it.
A hot tub is a great investment in your overall health and well-being. By paying attention to what your body is telling you, you’ll enjoy years of fun and relaxation. Contact the team at Cal Spas of Minnesota if you have questions about how to maintain your hot tub or to schedule a time to visit one of our showrooms.