A safe and accessible swimming pool is a space suitable for leisure for everyone: children, adults and the elderly, in any physical condition. In this scenario, it is worth highlighting that the ladder is one of the main accessibility elements of the pool. But there is another that is also very important: the handrail.
In this post, we will talk about how pool handrail improves mobility in the leisure area. Check out 6 tips that will help you!
What is a pool handrail?
O pool handrail is a structure made of wood, metal or other resistant material that is installed next to stairs or ramps, supporting users while they move, whether entering or exiting the water.
It is an ally especially when people with mobility difficulties access the pool. This is the case for elderly users, obese users, paraplegics, pregnant women, visually impaired users and so on.
In addition to accessibility and financial security proportionate, the pool handrail It has an aesthetic purpose, complementing the design and architecture of the leisure area.
We realized that the handrail is, therefore, a complementary and necessary element to the staircase. Without it, the stairs, even though they offer accessibility, do not provide as much safety as they should.
Handrail for physical exercise
In addition to the dual function of ensuring accessibility and safety for all users and, in particular, those who suffer from any temporary or permanent mobility restrictions, the pool handrail also serves to practice physical exercises.
In this sense, it is worth talking about the internal handrail, which increases safety and encourages the user to remain in the water, being useful especially when the pool is used for physical activities (stretching and gymnastic movements).
This shows how versatile handrails are! Here are some exercises that you and other people can do with the help of a handrail:
Strengthening Exercises
Handrails can be used as support for upper limb exercises: push-ups, triceps, biceps and shoulders. These are activities that strengthen muscles and improve posture.
Balance and proprioception exercises
Moving along handrails, with partial or total support, challenges balance and proprioception (perception of one's own body in space).
These exercises are valuable for muscle strengthening, motor coordination and fall prevention, as they help people gain more control over their own body.
Cardiovascular exercises
Walking, marching or running along handrails can be a great aerobic exercise option, especially for people with reduced mobility or undergoing rehabilitation.
Stretching and flexibility exercises
Handrails can be used as support for stretching exercises for the upper, lower limbs and trunk, improving flexibility and range of movement.
How to improve pool accessibility with handrails?
O pool handrail facilitates access for people using the leisure area. Let's see how to improve this accessibility with some tips:
1. Install correctly
The installation of the pool handrail It may vary depending on the type of pool, the material of the handrail and each person's preferences. Here are some common installation ways:
- Snap-in: Snap-in handrails are installed by sliding the ends of the handrail into pre-installed mounting brackets on the edge of the pool (can be easily removed when not in use);
- screwed: the pool handrail is fixed to the edge of the pool using screws; it is a more permanent installation, with greater stability;
- with fixing base: some handrails have fixing bases that are installed on the pool floor to provide additional support and stability, making them ideal for concrete or masonry pools;
- for elevated decks: for elevated pools, with surrounding decks, the handrails can be fixed directly to the deck;
- articulated: some handrails are articulated, which allows their height or position to be adjusted according to the users’ needs;
- built-in: built-in handrails are installed directly into the pool structure during construction, promoting a more integrated and discreet look to the leisure area;
- internal: the internal handrail is installed inside the water, directly on the pool wall with a brass or ABS, Support chrome plated ou universal support (which suits any type of pool: masonry, fiber or vinyl).
It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and seek help from qualified professionals to ensure proper and safe installation of the handrail for Swimmingpool.
2. Position strategically
Handrails must be installed at key points, such as at the edge of the pool, on access stairs and in areas with greater movement of people.
Ideally, handrails should be installed on both sides of the stairs to provide support options for users when entering and exiting the pool.
If there is enough space, it is worth creating two paths: one for people entering the water and another for people leaving the water. In each lane, you can place a pool handrail or, alternatively, place just one handrail dividing the entry way from the exit way.
This is a solution that makes the environment more organized and pleasant, and is recommended for pools that have many accesses at the same time, that is, with a lot of user traffic.
Only with strategic positioning will the handrails allow users to have safe support during entry, exit and movement through the water area.
3. Check the height
It is necessary to make sure that the handrails are at the appropriate height to guarantee reliable support for users of any height. It is recommended that handrails be between 80 and 90 centimeters above floor level.
4. Install products with non-slip design and suitable texture
The safety of handrails also depends on their surface. Choice products with a non-slip finish, such as stainless steel or aluminum with specific treatment.
This feature prevents your hands from slipping, even when wet, as they provide greater grip.
5. Brighten the area
Another tip is light up the area to make it easier for the user to locate the pool handrail. This way, safe access to the pool is guaranteed. This is a good solution especially in low light areas or at night.
For lighting, it is recommended to use LED luminaires, more economical, versatile and with modern look, standing out for its discretion.
6. Do regular maintenance
Realize manutenção adjust the handrails to ensure their durability. Check the fixation, stability and integrity of the materials, making repairs or replacements when necessary.
These precautions will allow you to keep the handrails in perfect condition, preserving the accessibility and safety of the pool.
Given everything we have said, we conclude that one of the most effective solutions to guarantee safe access to water is the pool handrail, which not only makes it easier for the user to get in and out, but can also be used as exercise equipment. And the Sodramar store offers the best handrail models on the market, made of stainless steel and with attractive designs. We even have the indoor pool handrail!
Do you want more guidance to increase safety and accessibility in the leisure area? After seeing our tips on pool handrail, check out 8 tips for choosing affordable pool stairs!