APSP (ARA) - When the weather is warm, Americans flock to the water. Community pools are overflowing with children playing games, adults swim laps at the local high school pool and vacationing families excitedly splash in hotel pools and relax in nearby hot tubs. But moments at the pool are fleeting unless you know the secret to a year-long backyard vacation.

While purchasing a swimming pool or hot tub is an investment, it can be a very smart one. Upgrading your home with an area for swimming and relaxation enhances your living space, enriches family life and can cut the costs and hassle of joining a health club, buying endless pool passes and even going on vacation. Depending on where you live, you can enjoy your pool year round. Even in colder climates, you can expect four months of pool use each year. When was the last time you could afford to take your family on a four-month trip?

The benefits of having your own swimming pool include:

* Increased outdoor living space
* A fun and desirable space for friends, family and neighbors to socialize and a sure-fire way to create memories for kids
* A cool, refreshing respite on hot days
* Instant access to one of the best low-impact, high-calorie-burning exercises around -- swimming
* Added value at resale, particularly in hot climates

If you don't have room for a pool or if it's out of your price range, consider a hot tub. There are many brands and models of hot tubs and spas with popular options available in economical price ranges. No matter where you live, you can enjoy a hot tub all year round.
The benefits of having your own hot tub include:

* A customized centerpiece in your own backyard
* A great and relaxing space for romance, family fun and parties
* On-site warm water hydrotherapy with health benefits that include lower blood pressure, relief from joint pain and muscle soreness and better sleep

When you're looking for a simple, but luxurious way to add value to your home, expand your outdoor living space with a pool or hot tub. Not only will your family's health improve with daily swimming in the pool and relaxation in the hot tub, but you'll be creating happy memories for years to come. And that's an investment worth every penny.

For more information or to find a pool builder, retailer or service company, visit www.APSP.org. For more information on the benefits of hot tubs, visit www.HotTubLiving.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent