burning the calories
We all know that swimming is a great way to exercise and that it is a great way to burn calories. You can reap the same rewards as running or other aerobic exercises, yet most people don’t realize how much swimming can help. By comparison, a 10-minute butterfly swim is equivalent to 150 calories, while running a 10-minute mile would burn 100 calories. With a variety of different stroke types, it’s perfect for any age and ability to pull off. Depending on the swimming stroke you choose to do, there are different muscle specificities, while the water provides gentle resistance. Therefore, because of this resistance, regardless of which stroke you end up doing, your body is still using its muscles to initially move through the water.
Increase your heart rate with less risk
When you’re swimming, the main benefit you’ll notice is that it works your entire body. With each stroke you do, your heart rate increases, and at the same time, your body doesn’t experience the same impact that your joints would have if you were running or lifting weights, so stress is reduced. If you go swimming regularly, you will soon notice that your muscles tone up and your strength increases. As you continue to swim, your body’s stamina levels will improve and therefore it will get easier the more you participate in this activity.
Healthy lungs and happy heart
While you swim and your muscles get the workout they need, exercise also works your insides. Your cardiovascular system is working harder, improving your health and your lungs in the long run. It is also recommended that people who suffer from asthma engage in swimming, the humidity of the indoor pools helps to breathe. Also swimming as an exercise is one of the most beneficial since the different breathing techniques used, for example, holding your breath help with lung capacity and control breathing.
Tones muscles, increases strength and stamina.
By swimming, you will be able to get a full body workout; this is largely because water creates much more resistance than it would with air. You will be able to increase your strength over time, and if you continually include swimming in your weekly exercise routine, you will soon find that your body tones up quickly. With each stroke you pull your body forward you are strengthening your upper body, while toning your chest, stomach and arms. One of the most attractive features of swimming is that you can choose from a variety of different strokes to target the different muscles that are growing, for example the butterfly is a great tonic for arms and shoulders due to the energy exerted. Another example is the back; the kicking of your legs will help with muscle buildup. Using a variety of punches will also keep you motivated and help you feel the burn. In order for you to stay in the water, you need to engage the use of your core muscles; abs, hips and stomach. Utilizing these muscles increases an individual’s stamina and strength when moving through the water.
Good after injury or arthritis and MS
As we have already explained, swimming is a great exercise to increase a person’s strength and stamina. In addition to this, it is also very good in helping a person to maintain their flexibility. Aerobic exercise, whether it’s aqua zumba or water yoga, is known for its health benefits. Research has been done to show that those who suffer from joint pain such as arthritis and multiple sclerosis can find relief by incorporating regular exercises in water. One reason this may be the case is because when you’re swimming, your limbs and spine expand, helping to relieve painful pressure on your body. Another period when swimming is beneficial for the body is when you are recovering from an injury. When muscles are weak and healing, gentle swimming and aerobic exercise help joints and strengthen muscles.
Improve sleep and improve mood
Swimming is known to release endorphins in the brain, which is known as the feel-good hormone, and in turn increases a person’s feeling of happiness and positive impact. Swimming is believed to be a good way to relax the body and reduce anxiety. While being in the water is often considered relaxing, most people enjoy being surrounded by water. The human need to be close and connected to nature is often met by swimming. Swimming is often an opportunity for the mind to shut down and you to release the tension within yourself. This can leave a person feeling relaxed and in a positive frame of mind, and as a result, they can switch off and sleep better at night.
Affordable, fun and not forgetting the kids.
There is a wide variety of sports and exercises that a person can choose from, whether it is a team sport or something to participate in as a hobby. Of all, swimming is the most affordable. You don’t need any equipment to be able to participate, all you need is a bathing suit and some water. Even if you’re just splashing around, participating in an aqua aerobics class, or in a pool, you’re sure to have a lot of fun and feel good about getting some exercise. Plus, it’s a great activity for kids of all ages to participate in, as there are no levels to reach and no age limits to exceed.
