How One Latham Employee Lost Over 100 Pounds One Lap at a Time

When James Votraw, a Latham employee based in Babcock Ranch, Florida, began experiencing chronic hiccups that doctors couldn't explain, he knew something needed to change. After months of tests and hospital visits, he found himself at a crossroads: continue down a path of discomfort and uncertainty or take control of his health.

At 45 years old, with a three-year-old daughter at home, James chose the latter.

"Maybe these hiccups were a wake-up call," James recalls. "It was time to get my act together. So, I committed to exercising, eating better, cutting out alcohol and focusing on my health."

Shortly after his hospital stay, James had a Latham fiberglass pool installed in his backyard. What began as a fun home addition quickly turned into a life-changing wellness tool.

A New Routine, A New Life

In the early days, James started small - swimming laps for just 10 minutes at a time. Soon, James committed to daily swimming, documenting his progress and staying accountable.

Over time, those 10 minutes intervals turned into 20 minutes… then 30. As the minutes increased, the pounds began to fall off. James swam nearly 400 consecutive days and lost over 100 pounds.

"Swimming gave me my identity back," James says. "I remembered who I was before I got heavy. Now I'm more confident, more active and more present for my family."

A Pool That Supports Wellness

As a Latham employee, James already knew the quality and durability of the fiberglass pools the company manufactures. But living with one, using it daily and relying on it for personal transformation gave him a whole new perspective. The low-impact nature of swimming made it the perfect option for weight loss, cardio health and stress relief, especially for someone easing back into exercise.

Fitness That Fits Every Lifestyle

Today, James isn't just healthier, he's more energized, more involved with his kids and more confident in every area of life. His journey is a powerful reminder that you don't need an expensive gym membership or complicated routine to prioritize your health.

"We spend so much more time together as a family," said James. "We love our Latham fiberglass pool. It's maintenance-free, smooth to swim in and has very low chemicals. It's been 100% positive."

From building fitness and family memories to finding your daily escape, a Latham pool offers more than just a beautiful addition to your home.

Thinking About a Pool for Fitness?

Swimming is a full-body workout that's easy on the joints and accessible to all ages. Whether you're an experienced swimmer or just getting started, a fiberglass pool can support your wellness goals in ways you might not expect.

Ready to dive into your own transformation? Explore our fiberglass pool options or watch this video to be inspired by James' story.