Dazadi.com Blog

As the warm days of summer drift into fall, pool owners across the country close their swimming pools for the season. Whether you have an in-ground or an above-ground pool, you need to take precautions against freezing, dirtying and damage during the winter months. Dazadi.com offers several outstanding products to help you protect your pool this winter.

Winterizing Chemicals: When preparing your pool for winter, you must first test and balance your water chemistry .

• Test for pH, Total Alkalinity, Calcium Hardness
  

To get an easy, accurate reading of your pool water’s chemical composition, you must use a test strip or kit. The AquaChek and TruTest Strips offer a clean, easy way to assess your pool water chemistry. No more messy drops or vials! Simply dip the test strip in your swimming pool water and get results in 30 seconds! The TruTest Digital Test Strip Reader accurately reads Free Chlorine, Bromine, pH and Total Alkalinity on test strips in 15 seconds without visual color matching. This lightweight strip is handheld, water resistant and features a large, easy-to-read LCD screen.

• Winterizing Kits

Many companies provide comprehensive winterizing kits to help you close your swimming pool correctly and effectively. Arctic Armor’s Winterizing Chemical Kits come with everything you need including winterizing chemicals, such as algaecide and shock, and instructions! Water pH should be between 7.2-7.6 and Alkalinity between 100-150 ppm.  Adjust to normal levels using pH plus or minus and alkalinity plus. When adding chemicals, do not use chlorine or bromine tablets as they can sink to the bottom and damage your pool’s surface. Mix any granular winterizing chemicals in a bucket so that they are totally dissolved, then dump your mixture into your pool. You want to steer clear of undissolved granules as they too can settle on the pool floor or stain your liner. Winter chemical kits keep your water clean and clear for the following season.

Winter and Safety Covers: Dazadi offers a wide range of winter covers, safety covers and leaf nets for in-ground and above-ground pools.  But with so many solid, mesh and other pool cover options out there, how do you choose the covering that’s right for you? Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each.

• Solid Winter Covers:  A solid winter cover keeps your pool almost completely free of dirt, leaves and other debris.

Pro: This means less cleaning in the spring. Also, a solid pool cover does not allow direct sunlight to pass through thereby impeding algae growth. The Arctic Armor Solid Winter Cover features tear-resistant, polyethylene construction, a black underside to retard algae growth and heat-sealed seams for a crystal clear pool! Arctic Armor produces winter covers for above ground and in-ground pools. These covers are available in the economical Bronze , Silver or Gold grade! The Bronze option comes with an excellent 8-year warranty. The mid-range Silver covers carry a 12-year warranty and the extra heavyweight, super strong Gold covers include an incredible 15-year warranty!

Con: Although solid covers keep your pool the cleanest, they are among the more difficult covers to maintain. They must be pumped or they’ll sag into your pool. They are also typically more vulnerable to the ravages of snow, ice and rainfall.

• Mesh Winter Covers: Mesh winter covers do not need to be pumped.

Pro: Because they allow pool water to pass through, these winter covers are easier to maintain during the winter season. The Arctic Armor Rugged Mesh Winter Cover features a tightly woven scrim that holds together for no gaps and no holes. The rugged mesh allows only rain water and very fine silt to pass through, protecting your above ground pool from contamination. This lightweight cover lifts easily for quick cleaning in the spring and features a black underside that retards algae growth. The Arctic Armor Rugged Mesh Cover is available for above ground and in-ground pools.

Con: Although, some good quality mesh covers keep out larger debris, they still allow in fine dirt and dirtied water.

• Leaf Nets: Swimming pool Leaf Nets catch leaves, dirt and other debris before they reach your pool cover.  Leaf nets are used in the fall (the time of year when dead leaves and twigs are a particular problem) and removed before the first snowfall. Arctic Armor Leaf Nets protect your cover from the mess and damage caused by decaying leaves with their tight mesh and durable, woven polyethylene construction. Arctic Armor produces leaf nets for round and oval above ground pools.

• Safety Covers: Swimming pool Safety covers (for in-ground pools) fit tightly over your swimming pool to protect against damage and accidental drowning. Arctic Armor Solid Safety Covers are strong enough to support your entire family, yet light enough to place atop or remove from your pool in under five minutes. These solid pool covers include a mesh panel in the center to drain water accumulation and prevent the need for pumping. Arctic Armor Mesh Safety Covers feature a tight weave that produces almost total shade, blocking the sun’s algae-producing rays for a virtually algae-free pool in spring. The Mesh cover filters out all but the finest debris to make spring opening a snap.

Don’t Forget:

There’s more to closing your pool than chemicals and covers. Remember to take precautions against plumbing and hardware damage. You’ll need to disconnect and clean out your filter and heating system, lower the water level below the mouth of your skimmer, blow out your plumbing lines and more. Consult your local pool specialist for details on proper winter care so you can enjoy your beat-the-heat retreat season after season!

Much has changed since Dr. James Naismith’s original vision of “basketball” - a game he invented in the cold winter of 1891. Originally played using peach baskets as goals, basketball has undergone several revisions to its rules, equipment and dimensions. For example, the first orange ball was introduced in the late 1950’s and dribbling remained unheard of until this time as well. In its early years, basketball was primarily played at educational institutions such as colleges, high schools and YMCA’s and gained its popularity through spirited interscholastic competitions. For more on the development of this dynamic sport, visit our basketball history guide and our guide to the original 13 rules.

With the formation of high school, women’s, collegiate, professional and even international basketball teams, the dimensions and distances of basketball court lines have shifted and reshifted. These measurements include the length and width of the court, centerline, free throw line, 3-point line and more. Today, such features are regulated and sanctioned as follows (click on images for larger view):

• High School (NFHS) Basketball Court dimensions are 84′ Long x 50′ Wide. The distance of the Free-Throw Line from the Backboard is 15′. The distance of the 3-Point Line from the center of the Basket is 19′ and 9”.

• NCAA (Men’s Collegiate) Basketball Court Dimensions are 94′ L x 50′ W. The Distance of the Free-Throw Line from the Backboard is 15′. The distance of the 3-Point Line from the center of the Basket is 20′ and 9”.

NCAA Basketball Court Dimensions

Twenty years after the NCAA instituted the 3-Point Shot, the men’s basketball committee chose to redefine the distance of the 3-Point Line. Beginning in the 2008-2009 season, the 3-Point Line (the line that separates the three and two-point areas) moved back a foot to a distance of 20′ and 9” from the center of the basket. Previously on par with the high school 19′ and 9” distance, the space interval was not welcomed by all. Many coaches feared the new interval would significantly affect the number of 3-point shots attempted and successfully accomplished. Others hoped the new line would distinguish the true sharpshooters from the merely sufficient players. The line, based upon the results of its first season, has had little effect on shooting rates and national statistics. Women’s NCAA upheld the 19′ and 9” distance in their 2008-2009 season.

Professional Basketball:

• NBA Basketball Court Dimensions are 94′ L x 50′ W. The Distance of the Free-Throw Line from the Backboard is 15′. The distance of the 3-Point Line from the center of the Basket is 23′ and 9” (or 22′ at a point where a line parallel to the baseline intersects the long axis of the court and the center of the basket).

• International (FIBA) Basketball Court Dimensions are 91′ L and 10” x 49′  2.5” W. The Distance of the Free-Throw Line from the Backboard is 15.09′. The distance of the 3-Point Line from the center of the Basket is 20′ 6.1”.

Women’s Teams use the following regulations:

• Women’s NCAA Basketball Court Dimensions are 84′ L x 50′ W. The Distance of the Free-Throw Line from the Backboard is 15′. The distance of the 3-Point Line from the center of the Basket is 19′ and 9”.

• Women’s Professional (WNBA) Basketball Court Dimensions are 94′ L x 50′ W. The Distance of the Free-Throw Line from the Backboard is 15′. The distance of the 3-Point Line from the center of the Basket is 20′ 6.1”.

Below is a comparison Basketball Court Measurement chart for further visual aid:

And Youth Tournaments:

• Junior High School (Youth Tournaments) Basketball Court Dimensions are 74′ L x 42′ W. The Distance of the Free-Throw Line from the Backboard is 15′. The Distance of the 3-Point Line from the center of the Basket is 19′ 9”.

The basketball rim height is always 10′ above the floor (with exceptions for certain youth games.) When constructing a court for your home, school or facility, it is important to know and clearly mark these dimensions as well as areas such as the key, restricted arc area (if necessary) and so on. And don’t forget to use a good quality basketball court marking kit as well as other necessary equipment to get the job done properly and efficiently. Dazadi offers the several basketball court marking kits. We recommend the Easy Court Premium Basketball Court Marking Kit. This reliable kit includes a reusable cardboard stencil to help you set a regulation key and free-throw line (as well as a high school 3-point line), easy-to-use stencil paint and easy-to-follow instructions. Although you’ll see other kits (such as some we have on our site) selling for $20-$40, it is important to note that lesser quality kits are made of a thin newsprint and can be difficult to use. The long-lasting, quality work of the Easy Court is worth the added purchasing cost. But don’t just take our word for it. User reviews and ratings can be found on our product profiles and offer valuable insight into the quality of each product. Consumer testimony is an important resource when shopping for that perfect fit. We encourage you to take advantage of this awesome option.

As the weather warms up, more and more of us are moving outside to enjoy the sun and recreational possibilities that were otherwise out of the question during the cold months. As camping, tailgate parties, backyard BBQ’s and more become staple weekend activities, people are searching for fun and exciting activities. As a result, lawn games such as Bocce Ball and Croquet become popular amongst players of all ages.

Not only are lawn games a great way to get your family outdoors, they are perfect for P.E. and recreational clubs. Games like horseshoes, ring toss, Bocce Ball, and Croquet test your aim and accuracy and help develop hand-eye coordination. While these classic games bring back fond memories of outdoor summer fun, new popular games are transforming backyards, campsites, and tailgate parties everywhere.

One example is BlongoBall. Very much like ladder ball and bolo toss, BlongoBall requires 2 BlonGoals, 2 BlongoBalls, and is made for 2 players or teams. The BlonGoals are PVC ladder-like frames that feature 3 rungs.  Simply stand 25 feet away from the BlonGoals and toss the BlongoBalls, which are 2 smaller balls attached to by a string, towards the BlonGoals. Each rung of the BlonGoal is worth a different value. The first is worth 1 point, the second is worth 2 points, and the third is worth 3 points. Bounce the ball off the ground onto the ladder for a whopping 5 points! The first player to reach 21 first without going over is the winner! But be careful! Other players can knock off your BlongoBalls causing you to lose points.

Blongo Washers is very similar to a bean bag toss game. It requires 2 game boards and 2 sets of 3 washers. The Blongo Washer boards stand in a slanted position and contain 3 holes. Place the 2 boards 6 feet apart so that they are facing each other. Stand behind one box and try to toss your washers into the 3 holes on the opposite game board. Each hole is worth a different value. The closest hole is worth 1 point, the middle is worth 2, and the farthest hole is worth 3 points. The first player to reach 21 without going over is the winner! When you’re done, the boards latch together and feature carrying handles for maximum portability!

Lawn games are fun for all ages and are usually portable, so you can take them to any party or outdoor activity. Guests will crowd around and be entertained for hours as they toss their way into a good time. So, put down the game controller, turn off the TV, put on some sunblock and have some outdoor fun this summer with a quick and easy-to-learn lawn game!

Physical education, P.E., Gym Class, whatever you like to call it is an experience we all share in the American school system. Loved by some and dreaded by many, physical education has been a part of public curriculum since the early 1800’s as schools and universities began to offer activity courses. In 1866, California became the first state to mandate physical education in the public school system. Since then, several states followed as they saw the need for fit and healthy students.

Over the years, several P.E. activities have become popular that fit every child’s desires. Some can jump rope while others play flag football or cage ball. Students can roll around the gym or playground on their scooters and play scooter hockey or have parachutes fling parachute popcorn. Playground Balls are a blur as 4-square tournaments and dodgeball are played. The possibilities are truly endless.

The P.E. Equipment category has taken on a life of its own and includes even odd products such as juggling scarves and feathers. Rubber animals can be flung in a parachute, passed around as a relay baton, used to organize your students, placed as field markers, or used for just about any thing else you can dream up. Dazadi includes a varied P.E. Equipment category with both normal and unconventional products, so the imagination of you and your students can run wild. With so much variety in your gym class, every student will be excited to exercise, run around and stay in shape!

When most people think of building and toning muscles, weightlifting is usually the first thing that comes to mind. While this is an effective method, some may become bored with the limited number of exercises you can do with a free weight. Resistance bands and tubes are an interesting exercise tool that provide many of the same benefits of weight training with endless exercise possibilities.

Resistance bands and tubes come in a variety of lengths, resistance levels, and styles. Resistance bands such as the JFit Resistance Bands refer to flat rubber bands while resistance tubes like the FitBALL Resistance Tubing refer to round, rubber tubes typically with handles on either end. Besides the traditional straight form, tubes are available in several different styles such as a figure-8 or cuff formation. Bands and tubes are also available in different resistance levels such as light, medium, or heavy. Owning a few bands with different resistance levels is suggested for use with each individual body part. Resistance bands and tubes give you a great total body workout and can be used to target your arms, legs, abs, thighs, shoulders, and back. There are tons of exercises you can do, but a simple one requires you to stand on the middle of the tube or band while lifting either tube end towards your face for a bicep curl. To work your legs, sit on the floor, loop a band around the bottom of your feet and push your legs forward.

They are also great for working out at home or on the go. The lightweight and simple design makes resistance tools perfect for stashing in your luggage the next time you are on a vacation or business trip. For a great at-home workout, they can be combined with the FitBALL Pro Tubing Attachment to transform your door into an effective and dynamic exercise tool. The FitBALL Deluxe Balance Board allows you to run resistance tubes and bands through small notches around the edge of the board so you can work on toning your arms while developing balance, coordination, and core muscles.

Dazadi has a great variety of bands and tubes for you to choose from. Looking for a great tube to use at home? Try the FitBALL Resistance Tubing, or the SPRI Deluxe Xertube. Looking to buy resistance bands in bulk for a gym or fitness center? Try the latex-free REP Bands 6-yard roll or the FitBALL Bulk Bands 50-yard roll. These and all resistance tools open up endless exercise possibilities so you can get creative and enjoy your workout. So, stretch, tone, and strengthen your way into a fit, strong body with this great form of resistance training!