When one thinks of working out, most picture weight machines, treadmills, Zumba classes, etc. But, did you know that swimming and water exercises work your entire body (yes, your WHOLE body) and cardiovascular system? Not to mention, it’s low impact!
This week we’re going to talk about the more intensive of the two: swimming. This sport has multiple health benefits and there’s no reason why you shouldn’t add it to your daily lifestyle.
Gives You a Complete Body Workout — Inside & Out
Why have one day dedicated to each part of the body when swimming covers them all? You increase your heartrate, tone muscle, and build strength and endurance. There are five different swim strokes to choose from (breaststroke, backstroke, sidestroke, butterfly, and freestyle); and although each one focuses on a specific muscle group, you’re still working your entire body.
You’re starting to get toned and look more physique, but what about the inside of your body? Research has shown that swimming can decrease blood pressure, make your heart and lungs strong, improve your sleep, and lower stress. You will be also able to learn proper breathing techniques (which are vital when you’re swimming) that will help avoid fatigue in and out of the pool. These breathing exercises associated with the sport is also a great activity for people living with asthma, as it allows you to expand your lung capacity and gain control of your breathing.
Safe for Pregnant Women
Swimming is one of a few activities that can be performed in all three trimesters of a woman’s pregnancy. It strengthens your heart, making it more efficient at pumping blood, improves circulation throughout the whole body, and boosts your oxygen levels in the blood. It’s also gentle enough to maintain muscle tone and increase your endurance (you’ll be thankful come labor time) all while keeping you cool.
When the baby pushes down on your sciatic nerve, it becomes very painful. But when you’re swimming, the baby is floating right along with you, which allows relief from that unpleasant pain. You’ll be able to forget about the extra pregnancy pounds you’ve gained and enjoy the feeling of weightlessness from the buoyancy of the water. And finally, just getting in the water can relieve the swelling in your arms and legs.
Great for Kids
It’s a well-known fact kids love swimming pools, so why not take advantage of that? It’s a great, affordable, and fun way to keep them active. Of course, you should always start them off with swimming lessons first so they know how to interact with water the right way. Then, get the entire family in on the fun and make it a daily workout routine that you can enjoy together.
Low Impact for Seniors
Swimming is low impact, which is perfect for seniors. When you work out in the water, it provides a gentle resistance and allows your body to become light, which offers supports if you fall. Swimming can reduce pain associated with a physical ailment by letting you exercise without the jolting movements found in other workouts. Other amazing benefits include increase in muscle strength and flexibility, improved heart and mental status.
Whether you’re looking to get toned or just want to feel healthier overall, swimming is a great way to make it happen. It’s easy to see why so many people love the sport. So instead of picturing the weight machines, treadmills, or other fitness equipment, start looking for a facility with fitness pools, counter-swim pools, and training pools (just like in the images and description below).
Last, but not least, you always want to talk to your doctor first before starting any new activity and make sure you know the proper techniques to swimming.
Stay tuned for next week! We’ll talk about water aerobics and how it can help people looking for a less vigorous workout routine.
Fastlane (Hamilton, NZ) Counter-Swim Pool
What is the ultimate exercise pool? Look at the pictures above! This free-standing pool has a customizable exterior and features two countercurrent swim jets, linear flow water circulation, and variable temperature settings. It’s perfect for training, aerobics, massage, and hydrotherapy. Natare exercise pools are commercial rated, highly durable, and suitable for in-ground or on-ground installation.
Sources:
Baby Center
