Whether you’re the next Michael Phelps or only know how to doggy paddle, swimming is a great way for you to stay in shape. Learning to swim is often the only hurdle you have to face, but with time and consistent effort, it can be an easy skill to acquire that comes with a multitude of benefits in return. Here are the reasons to consider diving into a workout routine that includes swimming:
Full Body Engagement
Swimming is known for being an exercise that works the entire body with nearly all muscle groups being activated. This results in toning muscles, gaining strength and endurance, and improving total fitness.
Supports Heart Health
Swimming has been found to lower disease risk and improve cardiovascular health. Since swimming works the entire body, it requires increased blood flow to all muscles, making the heart pump more. Couple that with the fact that you are often holding your breath, and you have a recipe for a hardworking cardiovascular system.
Low Impact on the Joints
Unlike running, biking, or other activities, swimming is done in a completely different medium — water! This allows for less impact on the body, specifically bones, and joints, making it an ideal form of exercise for those with arthritis, injuries, or disabilities.
Burns Calories…FAST
Who doesn’t love burning calories efficiently? Swimming for a mile, which is 66 lengths of a traditional 25-yard lap pool, burns close to 400 calories. Compared to walking/running (100 kcals per mile) and biking (25 kcals per mile), swimming for exercise seems like a no brainer!
Exercise without the Sweat
Usually when you finish a heart-pumping workout, your body is drenched in sweat, but not with swimming. Being in a pool allows the body to remain at a constant, cooler temperature when compared to land workouts. However, it is important to stay hydrated because although you may not feel like you’re sweating, you’re still losing water!
Improves Sleep
Because swimming is highly aerobic, it requires lots of energy. Most adults find it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep from daily aerobic activities like swimming.
Elevates Mood
Regardless of if you are swimming for distance or leisurely paddling through the water, swimming has been shown to improve one’s mood. Exercise, in general, has displayed mood-boosting effects and reduces anxiety and depression. Adding swimming to your weekly regimen will not only make you look good but make you feel good as well.
Can help during Pregnancy
Swimming during pregnancy has shown to help with complications and increases maternal physical and mental health. Many women report enjoying getting in the water during gestation as a way to relieve bone and joint pain due to the “weightless” feeling of floating in a pool. For more on this, check out our article: Reasons to Swim during Pregnancy.
Helps You Stay Cool
In these scorching summer months, it can be hard to stay cool. Taking a dip in the local pool, lake, or river can all be great ways to regulate body temperature on a warm day. Just be sure to practice water safety wherever you choose to dive in.
Fun for All Ages
Just like adults, kids love going for a splash in the pool. Get them involved in swim lessons, join a local summer swim league, or play games in the pool to keep them busy and active. It serves as a great form of exercise for them too!
