Steamboat Springs, CO - Entering downtown Steamboat near 3rd Street, it’s hard not to miss the towering figure of a yellow crane and the gaping hole full of dirt. This scene is Old Town Hot Springs’ lap pool – or what’s left of it. The nonprofit, a favorite among locals, has closed the lap and kiddie pool area for several months, in order to complete a $10 million reconstruction project. Set to be completed by summer 2024, the project focuses on improving the organization and overall quality of the lap pool and kiddie play areas, which have not been updated since the 1980s. The improvements will allow the pool to sustain growth as visitor numbers continue to rise in the future. The 25-yard and up to 10-foot deep new lap pool will feature gutters and a diving board. The new kiddie area will include a splash pad, a play zone with interactive fixtures, slides, and shade to accommodate families. A new community pool for swim lessons and exercise classes and an additional hot pool for soaking will also be included.

During construction, the rest of the facility is operating as normal but frequent lap pool swimmers have new options. For those who still want to get a few strokes in, OTHS has set up three alternatives to continue training and keep those swimming muscles strong.

1. Lisa Palmiatto, the fitness director at the pool, is offering her experienced skills and knowledge to work with OTHS members to create a personalized exercise plan. These programs will assist swimmers in maintaining their strength and mobility. Her services are completely free to members. To schedule a consultation, email: [email protected]

2. Keep splashing with the newly introduced SuperSwim Tether System, which allows swimmers to simulate their lap strokes while remaining stationary in the water. Located in the waterslide pool, users can simply clip on the belt and let the tether resistance hold them in place while they perform their regular swim motions. The tethers are designed to help swimmers with their technique and bilateral breathing, as well as concentrate on specific muscle groups. There are three available tethers that operate on a first come/first serve basis. They are typically available any time Monday through Friday; view the full schedule online at www.oldtownhotsprings.org.
 
3. Prefer company over a solo workout? OTHS has created a brand new Master’s Rowing class to replace Master’s Swim. Held from 12-12:45 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, the rowing workouts include exercises implemented by elite swimmers worldwide. Rowing enhances endurance, speed and strength as it teaches swimmers crucial skills such as hand speed and feel, pace at changing speeds and relaxed recovery. Visit the front desk or use the member portal to sign up. 

For more information, visit https://oldtownhotsprings.org/