When Monumental Sports & Entertainment set out to upgrade the hydrotherapy training room at MedStar Capitals Iceplex, SwimEx got the call to bring their vision to life. MedStar Capitals Iceplex, the Washington Capitals’ practice arena, is uniquely located on the eighth floor, therefore making this installation one of a kind.
Navigating Complex Requirements
The project included replacing the existing hot and cold plunge pools and installing a state-of-the-art SwimEx 600 T, one of our most advanced sports therapy pools. However, the hydrotherapy training room location and layout introduced a set of distinct logistical hurdles:
Limited Access: The best entry point to the eighth floor was a freight elevator, making transportation and delivery complex.
Space Constraints: The hydrotherapy training room required above-ground installation for all pools. Careful planning was essential for the placement of ladders and rails to avoid interfering with ventilation tunnels and overhead beams.
Height Restrictions: Low head clearance added another layer of difficulty. The project required creative design adjustments to ensure easy entry and exit for all athletes.
Innovative Solutions and Expert Execution
From the outset, the SwimEx team worked closely with the Washington Capitals, Monumental Sports, and the installation crew to deliver solutions and solve any challenges. Their collaborative approach included:
Detailed Planning: The team developed a meticulous delivery and installation plan. A safe, efficient process that minimized disruption to the facility was a priority.
Creative Manufacturing: The custom hydrotherapy pool was built in eight pieces. The custom hot and cold plunge pools were manufactured in two pieces. The smaller pieces made delivery easier and also streamlined installation in the tight space.
Expert Execution: The pools were transported and assembled in the hydrotherapy room without compromising the facility’s structure or the project timeline.
The Result: A Cutting-Edge Professional Sports Hydrotherapy Room
Thanks to SwimEx’s dedication and expertise, the Washington Capitals now have a cutting-edge professional sports hydrotherapy room that is already making an impact. The 600 T is an ideal choice when it comes to hydrotherapy for athlete recovery. Its powerful paddlewheel current and versatile design is effective for rehab and conditioning. The custom hot and cold plunge pools are ideal for NHL athlete recovery, helping reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Elevating Athlete Performance
The Washington Capitals’ revamped hydrotherapy room is a prime example of innovative solutions and collaboration in action. By overcoming logistical hurdles, SwimEx helped the team create a facility that takes athlete recovery and performance to the next level.
“With our NHL training facility being on the 8th floor, we had some difficult obstacles in upgrading our hydrotherapy room. SwimEx was easy to work with, creative in their solutions, and detailed in their execution. Our project resulted in a cutting-edge hydrotherapy room that will be an integral part of how we take care of our athletes. We could not be more pleased with our final SwimEx product and are proud of our new hydrotherapy room.” ~ Jason Serbus, MA, ATC, PES, Director of Sports Medicine and Head Athletic Trainer for the Washington Capitals