How to Enjoy Your Pool Even When It’s Freezing Outside

The changing leaves and heavy, crispy air are the first sign that that’s about enough freestyle diving for the year. The chills and frills are what come next, and you certainly shouldn’t go swimming now, or should you?

If nothing can separate you from the untamable pleasures of an icy plunge, here are a few ways you can still get a proper swim during winter.

Get a Pool Heater

A pool heater is your best shot at keeping your pool warm enough during the chilly months. They typically will cost about $100 a month. If you have one and want to get the most benefit, have it run for about an hour or two before you jump in. If your timings’ right, your pool will be the right temperature even during the coldest winter morning. For a higher ROI, keep swimming and heating for as long as you can, and that also includes keeping the pumps and valves running throughout.

And while you’re shopping for a heater, consider getting a freeze sensor and winterizing all your water features. Remember also to keep your pool super clean and chemicals balanced throughout winter.

Wear Something Suitable

Your one piece just won’t cut it during winter; you have to get something that keeps the warmth in and has you looking dashing while at it. A proper wet suit would be perfect for the job, and since winter isn’t exactly swimming or bikini season, you should probably stick to something that keeps the most heat inside.

Keep it Short

Despite sounding like something on the “things not to do during winter” list, a plunge in your heated pool could have some benefits. It helps reduce muscle inflammation if you’ve been pushing yourself a little too hard physically, accelerates weight loss as swimming burns calories, and your cardiovascular circulation also gets a jumpstart. But the trick is to stick to a few minutes a day per session and if it’s around 50 degrees plus outside. This will prevent any chances of catching a cold or something worse.

Even if you decide not to swim, it’s great to keep your pool open during winter; you might change your mind.