If you're thinking about getting a pool, give yourself a pat on the back because you're making a very smart choice. In addition to the many health benefits swimming has to offer—such as reduced blood pressure, low-stress exercise, a stimulated metabolism and the ability to burn around 500 calories an hour—there are many other wonderful reasons to own a pool.
To help you feel even better about your decision, we've compiled a list of 5 great things owning a pool can do for you and your family:
1. Take a Virtual Vacation
Question: What's the first thing your kids ask on any vacation upon checking into a hotel? Answer: "Does it have a pool?" Well guess what, kids? Now you have a pool forever. Having a little bit of the big blue in your backyard feels like a permanent vacation every time you step outside and see it glimmering there before you. Set up a lounge chair and read by the water, and take a dip whenever the mood hits you. Bonus: No flights to catch home or travel hassles required when you're done; just walk back inside your home.
2. Be the Cool House on the Block
Yes, if you have children, get ready to be the popular house in your neighborhood, especially as the summer swelter starts to scorch. Having other kids over to swim with your children will give them wonderful friendship opportunities, and will give you a chance to keep an eye on them while they are getting fresh air, exercising and being social. You will always know where your kids are, and they will have a positive entertainment alternative to sitting in front of a screen that will keep them fit and healthy. It's a win-win!
3. Pool Parties are Priceless
People pay good money to rent out the local pools for birthday parties and social gatherings. Well, those days are over for you, new pool owner. Also gone are the days of being forced to rent out the local germ-infested pizza and game arcade for your kids' birthdays, because now you can have pool parties! And pool parties aren't just for kids—having an adult pool party is a great way to get to know your grown-up neighbors, too.
4. A Good Investment
If the day ever comes that you decide to sell your home, having a swimming pool can drastically improve your property value, allowing you to sell the home for more money. Many prospective buyers are particularly excited by the idea of owning a swimming pool, and in a tough realty market, your swimming pool might be the sparkling gem that makes your house stand out in a dull throng of for-sale homes with boring backyards.
5. Make Memories
Pool time is family fun time, and if you have a pool, it's likely your kids will have wonderful childhood memories of learning to swim and playing games with friends and family. Family board game night is fun on a cold winter night, but when you want to beat the heat and have some family bonding time, there's nothing more refreshing than splashing around together in a swimming pool.
You and your loved ones will enjoy your pool for years, as the soothing crystal waters lend rejuvenation, relaxation and balance to your life. By adding a swimming pool to your home, you're giving yourself a guaranteed backyard vacation any time you need one, and a gentle form of exercise that will keep you healthy and strong. Congratulations!
Matthew Granderson is a professional blogger that provides advice and information for pool installation, swimming pool kits and pool maintenance. He writes for Royal Swimming Pools, the leading source for pools, inground pool filters and equipment as well as above ground pools.
