COUNTER-CURRENT SYSTEMS
Swimming On The Spot Unlike jetted alternatives, the Fastlane from Certikin generates a wide block of crystal clear, bubble-free and completely adjustable water flow
When it comes to increasing the functionality of smaller pool spaces, countercurrent systems are perhaps one of the most effective add-ons for both new and existing installations. The technology has been a driving force behind the success of swim spas and an increasing number of pools are now incorporating them. Affordable and easy to install, they deliver a more complete experience and in this issue, we take a look at the brands that are providing the power behind these systems By Jon Wadeson
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ools of all shapes and sizes have become a popular and welcome addition to many homes during the pandemic, but there’s a number of reasons why a larger swimming pool isn’t always a possibility or even a necessity. Perhaps there is a restriction on space or budget. There may also be aesthetic reasons why a large pool just won’t work within a certain setting. Whatever the reason, sometimes a small pool is the only suitable option but whilst they can be a lot of fun, they can also just seem to lack that certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ – and often, it’s the ability to enjoy a good old-fashioned and proper uninterrupted swim. For the owners of many pools, the solution is a counter-current system – a product which enhances the usability of smaller installations, adds some much-needed wow factor and somewhat levels the playing field against their much bigger rivals. In a number of ways, it could easily be argued that they actually surpass them. Once installed, a counter-current system makes it possible to have unlimited pool fun, swim for as long as a user likes, plus their introduction can often provide hydrotherapy options too. With built-in and over-the-wall options available, there are no excuses for not exercising in smaller pools or maximising their full potential, and we take a closer look at some of the counter-current options that are available.
ENJOY LIFE IN THE FASTLANE WITH CERTIKIN Whether training to be an Olympic swimmer or simply swimming for the joy of it, Certikin have counter-current options to suit all levels of swimming needs.
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The Fastlane Pro from Endless Pools sits at the top end of the Certikin range and is a product which effectively turns a swimming pool into a health club. Athletes love the adjustable speed swim current and, for those in training mode, it is also possible to add Fit@Home which lets the customer control their Fastlane Pro from any smart device, meaning that you can programme and repeat advanced, multispeed ‘interval’ workouts. What sets this counter-current apart is that the turbulence-free water stream is wider than the swimmer’s body and deeper than any swim stroke, yet it is narrow enough not to impinge on other swimmers. Unlike jetted alternatives, the Fastlane generates a wide block of crystal clear, bubble-free and completely adjustable water flow, delivering a fast, smooth swim current up to a 1:14/100m pace (a necessity for any serious swimmer). It’s suitable for almost any pool – free Fit@Home lets customers control their Fastlane Pro from any smart device
form or rectangular: gunite, vinyl or fibreglass; new construction or retrofit. The required minimum water depth is 0.9m. It’s particularly suitable for small swimming pools as it lets users swim for as long as they like without turning. Certikin also supplies its own branded entry-level counter-current system – an affordable option designed for small private pools. It is equipped with a 3hp pump to create an adjustable counter-stream of water. The directional inlet allows a 15° inclination in any direction and also features an adjustable air/water mixer for a relaxing bubble massage effect.
GOLDEN COAST HELP SWIMMERS TRAIN HARDER As a leading wet leisure distributor, Golden Coast offers one of the widest ranges of counter-current units on the market today. For those looking to up their training, they provide athlete-level systems like EVAstream, from Dutch manufacturer EVA Optic – a counter-current unit that delivers a powerful jet of water to swim against to help build strength and conditioning. “EVAstream was designed to challenge swimming ability,” explained Adam Clark, Sales Director at Golden Coast. “It can be used to improve swimming technique and really enhances a physical fitness regime.” Compact yet powerful, EVAstream has a flow rate of 8.5 m/s (> 30 km/h) and has the option of using pre-programmed training modes – providing a challenging workout even for professional swimmers. The flow of water can be adjusted between 10% and 100%, so EVAstream can also
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