Swimming As Exercise

 

I know people who will get up rather early in the morning so they can get in multiple laps before heading off to work.  I've never been much of a swimmer even though I've lived near the ocean since the only real stroke I do is the side stroke.  It was great because I could keep my face from getting hit by waves while swimming in the ocean.  

If you have access to a pool, you might want to consider swimming as a form of exercise because it is a great all round activity because it elevates your heart rate while taking stress off the body.  The water also provides buoyancy so there is less stress on your joints.

Swimming can build endurance, improve muscle strength, and increase cardio fitness.  At the same time, it helps you maintain a healthy weight while keeping your heart and lungs healthy. It is a good way to build strength while toning muscles at the same time.  Finally, it provides a great all over workout since it uses almost all of your muscles whether you do the butterfly, or breast stroke.

In addition, swimming can help your balance, posture and coordination.  Swimming is extremely relaxing and helps get rid of stress. It also improves flexibility, and is a great way to cool down on a hot day. Furthermore, it can be done in a pool, in the ocean, in a lake, in a dam, or in a river.  Just make sure the area is safe for swimmers.  

It is recommended one does at least two and a half hours of swimming each week or alternate it with cardio.  Swimming is considered a medium intensity workout as you can go as fast or slow as you want.  It uses both lower and upper body muscles at the same time.   The water provides resistance which is why swimming improves your overall strength.  If you want to add a bit extra, use hand held paddles, a foam noodle or kick board.

Make sure you warm up and stretch your body before beginning your session for the day. Focus on your back, shoulders, and legs since they are used so much.  Don't forget to have lots of fluids on hand so you stay hydrated.  If you are just starting out, check with the doctor and then swim laps for five to ten minutes. As you get better, increase the number of laps till you are swimming for 30 minutes straight. A 30 minute swim is said to provide the same exercise as a 45 minute session on land because it increases your energy level by boosting your metabolic rates.

One of the nicest things about swimming is that you will never sweat because the surrounding water is always cooling you down.  In addition, it is an excellent form of exercise if you are pregnant, suffer from arthritis, or diabetes.  No matter what, start slow, work your way to the 30 minute sessions, and swim regularly.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great day.