|
Swimming is a fun, healthy and low impact form of resistance exercise that works your entire body while providing support at the same time. It exercises the body and relaxes the mind without limiting an overweight individual, a pregnant woman or a person suffering from an injury as it won’t place any added stress on the body.
How to get started
Anyone can benefit from swimming as it is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Here are some of the options available to you:
- For those who don't want any distractions then you may want to head to the pools by yourself. Make sure you mix things up by changing your swimming strokes and pace to challenge your body.
- If you prefer healthy competition to keep you motivated and professional guidance from someone who can maximize the benefits every time you go then you may want to contact your local pool complex to see if they have a Swim Club you can join.
- A family that exercises together is a healthy family. Lane swimming is not your only option to get your blood pumping. Try to involve the entire family in water polo or water volleyball.
- If you like the outdoors then try swimming in the sea or a lake. As you will have to contend with outside factors such as the cold, the surf, the current and the weather make sure you wear the appropriate swim wear. You can lose your body heat up to 25 times faster in water than on land. Also never swim alone if you are in open water for safety reasons.
Health benefits of swimming
Swimming on a regular basis provides a number of benefits to your health. Swimming:
- works out your entire body from your arms, legs, back, stomach and shoulder muscles
- tones your entire body
- builds endurance and muscle strength
- improves the stability of your back and core muscles. For pregnant woman the water supports the body while helping to develop and maintain those muscles required for carrying a child
- promotes weight loss. This is dependent on the intensity of the workout and following through with a healthy balanced diet
- prevents joint problems
- gets your blood pumping and increases the flow of oxygen through your body which is important for preventing or reducing the effects of cardiovascular disease
- lets you breathe. Unlike other forms of exercise which can inhibit a person that suffers from respiratory problems such as asthma, the humid air inside of a pool complex alleviates the symptoms. It is important to note that chlorine is a common form of maintaining the cleanliness of a pool and that chlorine can adversely affect those who suffer from respiratory problems.
- increases your lung capacity
- can have meditative benefits if you allow your mind to wander. Try to focus on the rhythmic pulse of each stroke to gain a sense of wellbeing.
Whether you want to relax, lose weight, or maintain some form of exercise during pregnancy or while injured, swimming will leave you with a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment all year round.
|
