Sore Muscles and Hot Tubs: Does Soaking Help?

We’ve all been there—after a long day of physical activity, whether it’s a tough workout, a day of gardening, or just tackling a big move, your muscles are left feeling sore and achy. While it’s a natural response to exertion, it doesn’t mean you have to just tough it out. One of the lesser-known perks of owning a hot tub is its ability to help ease sore muscles, offering a soothing retreat for both body and mind.

What Causes Sore Muscles?

Muscle soreness, also known as myalgia, can happen to anyone. It’s your body’s way of responding to various factors, such as overuse, stress, tension, or even medical conditions like fibromyalgia. Depending on the cause, soreness can range from mildly annoying to downright painful.

• Overuse and Strain: When you push your muscles harder than they’re used to, tiny tears in the muscle fibers occur, leading to that familiar feeling of soreness.
• Stress and Tension: Emotional stress can manifest physically, often resulting in tight, achy muscles.
• Fibromyalgia: A chronic condition that causes widespread pain, often accompanied by muscle soreness and extreme fatigue.

How a Hot Tub Can Help

Jet Massage

Imagine sinking into the warm, bubbly embrace of a hot tub while jets gently massage your sore muscles. This combination of warmth and massage can significantly reduce muscle pain, helping your body recover faster. The jets target specific muscle groups, providing a deep tissue massage that can ease tension and promote relaxation.

Improved Circulation

The heat from a hot tub increases blood flow by dilating blood vessels, which allows more oxygen and nutrients to reach your muscles. This boost in circulation can help reduce muscle soreness and speed up recovery.

Hydrotherapy

Hot tubs are a great form of hydrotherapy, which is a therapeutic treatment using water to relieve pain and treat various ailments. A 15-20 minute soak in a hot tub can work wonders for sore muscles, helping to relax and rejuvenate your body.

The Best Hot Tubs for Treating Sore Muscles

When it comes to easing muscle soreness, the number and placement of jets in a hot tub can make all the difference. For instance, the Emerald Hot Tub from our Thermals range boasts 76 jets strategically positioned to target each muscle group, offering a truly therapeutic experience.

Another consideration is how your body is positioned in the hot tub. Fully submerging your body allows the jets to effectively massage all areas, which is why hot tubs with loungers, like the Mercury Hot Tub, are popular among those looking to relieve muscle pain. If you prefer a mix of upright seating and lounging, the Leo Hot Tub offers both options, providing versatility for a more personalized soak.

If you’re still unsure whether to opt for a lounger or not, check out our blog To Lounge or Not to Lounge? – Should I Get a Hot Tub with a Lounger? for more insights.

Wrap Up

Muscle soreness doesn’t have to keep you down. With the right hot tub, you can turn your soak into a therapeutic experience that not only eases pain but also promotes overall well-being. So, why not make your hot tub your go-to recovery tool and let those aches and pains melt away?