If you read the papers (or Internet), you would think the aquatics field is all about death and pain. The exception is during an Olympic year when we witness some amazing athletes in bathing suits. I have the privilege and blessing to speak to groups around the world. Most people in the pool and spa industry (manufacturers, distributors, retailers, builders and service companies) seem to forget that people don’t buy pools or hot tubs so they can have a filter, variable speed motor, compliant drain cover, or a system to deliver disinfectant. That would be like buying a sports car because you like to get it filled up at the gas station or buy new windshield wiper blades. Give me a break!
Most people buy because the product creates value. It is good for their family, good for their health, or good for their ego. While we know so many folks out there buy a pool because it makes their backyard complete and they love to share the pool with their children and grandchildren, we also know our population is aging, and obese, and what better place to get exercise than in a pool or spa? I have been reading more and more in the trade publications that retailers and builders are hungry for the ‘science behind the pool and spa’ – what makes it so good for us.
Well, I hate to preach from the NSPF choir, but truly, there is only one conference in North and South America that includes a series of seminars on how the water environment helps people’s health. This year’s World Aquatic Health™ Conference (Oct 10-12 - Norfolk, VA) will reveal positive impacts on spinal cord injuries, heart disease, arterial health, autism, multiple sclerosis, and what the World Health Organization (WHO) is thinking about aquatic therapy. Check out the videos of past seminars we have on our YouTube channel.
Reprinted from the NSPF Blog