The purposes of this study were to evaluate the evidence of spa therapy, as well as spa effects, on health promotion, and to discuss the proper applications of spa to leisure activities that are focused on fitness.
A relatively small number of highly evidence-graded studies, such as randomized controlled trials (RCTs), were identified from a literature search, and many had problems in methodology. Results showed that aquatic exercises conducted in hot water, including hot spa, obviously alleviated pain in locomotorium diseases. However, few RCTs are currently available concerning other diseases, and consequently, there is no evidence on aquatic exercise efficacy in those diseases.
An increasing number of people enjoy leisure activities, particularly hot spa bathing, primarily for fitness. Obviously, hot spa has pain-relieving effects on locomotorium diseases, which are prevalent in middle-aged or elderly people. Therefore, hot spa bathing, as well as a change of air, and other complex factors associated with hot spa visits, are expected to promote health.
It is hoped that people will learn more about hot spa, and enjoy it as a regular leisure activity.
