Do Hot Tubs Help with Weight Loss?

If you’ve started on your weight loss journey and have been hitting the gym, you might be looking for ways to unwind after a tough workout. Hydrotherapy can help rejuvenate and relax muscles - but do hot tubs help with weight loss? Let’s dive in. 

How Do Hot Tubs Help with Weight Loss?

Hot tubs can help support weight loss in a number of ways including hydrotherapy. The heat from the hot tub increases blood circulation, promoting better metabolic function and potentially aiding in calorie burning. Relaxation provided by a hot tub may help alleviate stress and promote muscle recovery.

While hot tubs alone are not a substitute for a balanced diet and regular exercise, they can complement a healthy lifestyle and contribute to overall well-being. So, let’s look at how do hot tubs help with weight loss!

1. Calorie Burn in a Soothing Soak

While soaking in hot water doesn't replace the benefits of—or burn the same amount of calories as— aerobic exercise, it does induce a slight increase in heart rate. This elevated heart rate can lead to a modest calorie burn, like that of a gentle walk. Over time, these additional calories burned can contribute to a calorie deficit—a key to weight loss.

2. Stress Reduction and Emotional Eating

Weight loss isn't solely about physical activity and calorie counting; emotional well-being plays a crucial role. Hot tubs, with their warm water and soothing ambiance, are renowned stress busters. Chronic stress can trigger emotional eating and cravings for unhealthy foods, derailing weight loss efforts. By incorporating hot tub sessions into your routine, you create a space for relaxation and stress reduction, potentially curbing emotional eating tendencies.

3. Improved Sleep for Weight Management

Quality sleep is an underrated yet powerful factor in weight loss. Lack of sleep disrupts hormonal balance, leading to increased hunger and cravings for high-calorie foods. Hot tubs contribute to better sleep by promoting relaxation and easing tension. The drop in body temperature after a soak signals the body that it's time for sleep, potentially enhancing sleep quality. As sleep improves, the body's ability to manage weight more effectively is bolstered.

4. Muscle Relaxation and Post-Workout Recovery

Integrating hot tub sessions into your fitness routine can have post-workout benefits. The warm water helps relax muscles, alleviating tension and soreness. This can be especially beneficial after intense exercise sessions, encouraging consistency in your fitness routine. When muscles are well-rested, you're more likely to stay active.

5. Water Resistance for Low-Impact Exercise

While hot tubs aren't a substitute for traditional workouts, they do offer a unique environment for low-impact exercise. The buoyancy of water reduces the impact on joints while still providing resistance to movement. Engaging in gentle exercises, such as leg lifts or arm circles, while in the hot tub can contribute to increased calorie burn. This low-impact approach is ideal for individuals with joint issues or those looking for a more accessible form of exercise.

6. Detoxification and Metabolism Boost

Sweating is the body's natural way of eliminating toxins. Hot tubs induce sweating, promoting detoxification. While this process alone won't lead to significant weight loss, it supports the body's overall health. Additionally, the increase in body temperature might contribute to a boost in metabolism. While the effect is temporary, regular hot tub use, when combined with a healthy lifestyle, may make a difference. 

Swim Spas: A Tool for Weight Loss

By now, we hope you've got your answer to the question, "Do hot tubs help with weight loss"! But if you're really looking to enhance your weight loss journey, a swim spa may be a better choice. Not only do swim spas offer many of the benefits as hot tubs, but you can customize low-impact workouts.

A swim spa has a powerful jet positioned at one end of the spa. You can set your resistance, tailor your workout to your ability, and swim against the current for an effective, low-impact workout at home.

Final Word: Do Hot Tubs Help with Weight Loss?

How do hot tubs help with weight loss? They can help with muscle recovery, improving cardiovascular function, and getting better sleep. But when asking the question, "Do hot tubs help with weight loss,” you need to take into consideration how you're using your hot tub to support your weight loss journey. A hot tub alone won't help you shed stubborn weight, but it can help you recover faster, massage tired muscles after a workout, and get better rest.

If you’re looking to add a hot tub to your weight loss routine, or you just want a relaxing oasis of your own, head to your local Wellis hot tub dealer today. Shop in person, buy a hot tub for sale online, or call us at  844-4-WELLIS to find the perfect spa for you!