We all know that exercise is a crucial component of a healthy lifestyle, along with a good diet and stress reduction techniques. Even if you hate hate running or attending group classes, there are many other options for getting exercise. One great option that usually goes overlooked is swimming.
You may not realize all the health benefits you’re getting when you hop in the pool for a fun dip, but when you go for a swim you’re doing more than just burning calories. Here are five health benefits that that are sure to make you want to explore all that pool contractors Bradenton FL have to offer.
1. Cardio Fitness
It’s easy to forget how hard your heart is pumping when you go for a swim, but it’s a wonderful source of cardio fitness benefits. Swimming is actually a full-body workout, since every part of you is moving. Not to mention that you’ll be burning a ton of calories each time you get in the water. Even when you go for a moderate 30 minute swim you can burn up to 200 calories.
To get the most cardio benefits, practice strokes like the breaststroke, butterfly and freestyle.
2. Coordination and Movement
Swimming also improves movement and coordination, making it a common exercise for seniors seeking to retain mobility. It also improves flexibility and helps promote vigor and vitality. In addition, swimming can improve posture and balance due to the effort required to keep yourself afloat in the water.
Your body will feel flexible and free after exercising in a pool; it’s the perfect way to either start or end your day.
3. Muscle Building
Swimming builds general muscle strength because you use a complex array of muscles in order to propel yourself forwards in the water. When you swim regularly you’ll notice your body becoming stronger and your muscles toning. Even better, all this will happen without putting much stress on your body as you would when doing activities like running or lifting weights.
Get that muscle definition you’ve been looking for by joining your local gym with an indoor pool or heading to the lake or beach.
4. Exercise for injuries
Swimming is often used in physical therapy and treatment plans for injuries because of its noted coordination and mobility related benefits. It’s been known to help ease joint pain and speed up injury recovery, decreasing stiffness and tendon inflammation. Physical therapists often recommend that those with disabilities or conditions like arthritis use swimming to keep them moving and improve their range of motion.
Because of these benefits, swimming is often used in orthopedic treatments as well, especially for shoulders, knees, wrists, and other joints. The gentle pressure of the water can provide many benefits for those in recovery.
5. Stress Relief
Finally, a major health benefit of swimming is stress reduction. Any exercise can aid in managing high stress levels, but swimming is can be especially helpful. When you get in the cold pool you can relax and enjoy the water while your body is exercising and letting off steam. Swimming is a peaceful and calming way to get your heart pumping and blood flowing.
Swimming can also improve your mood which, in turn, leads to less anxiety and tension. Stress can lead to a lot of other health problems, such as heart disease and high blood pressure, so swimming is a great way to contribute to your all-around health.
Take advantage of all these health benefits by getting in the water for your next workout. You’ll improve your heart health, burn calories, increase your flexibility and range of motion, build muscle, and get rid of unwanted stress – all while enjoying the relaxing feeling of cool water. Find your local pool or beach or invest in a new pool to get started with one of the best aerobic exercises out there.