Any type of exercise is better than none, but swimming is proven to be one of the best. As well as being fun, swimming is a great way to keep fit and well and also make friends. Swimming is a low-impact activity that has many physical and mental health benefits. It is a healthy activity that you can continue for a lifetime. Great for both mind and body, here’s why spending more time in the water is a seriously smart choice.
- Swimming strengthens muscles
The resistance of water can be 44 times greater than air, meaning you have to work harder to move through it. Swimming provides an all-over body workout, as nearly all of your muscles are used during swimming. It’s like working out with weights or machines without the need for expensive equipment, which makes swimming an affordable way to strengthen your muscles.
- Swimming is low-impact exercise
You’re only bearing about 10% of your weight when you swim due to the buoyancy of water. With greater ease of movement and less strain on bones, joints and muscles, swimming has a lower risk of injury than many other forms of exercise. Swimming also provides good low-impact therapy for some injuries and conditions.
- Swimming helps to manage weight
Expect to burn around 367 calories after just 30 minutes of breaststroke – that beats walking, cycling and even running. Swimming serves as an excellent way for overweight people to work out without straining their body. It might not burn calories quickly as some other, more intense, workouts, but it will get the job done in terms of weight loss.
- Swimming lowers disease risk
Not only is swimming kind to your heart and a great form of cardiovascular exercise, it’s also shown to control blood sugar levels, lower blood pressure and reduce levels of bad cholesterol in your blood. So by swimming regularly, you’re less likely to develop illnesses like type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke. It helps maintain a healthy weight, healthy heart and lungs.
- Swimming boosts your mood
Being a swimmer, no matter at what level (amateur, profesional or just for personal enjoyment) you are less prone to tension, depression, anger and confusion. It means that novice and amateur swimmers can feel just as good as the pros, thanks to the release of feel-good hormone serotonin.
- Swimming is sweat-free
As a swimmer, you’ll never get overheated or feel sweaty because the water around you is constantly cooling you down. It is a pleasant way to cool down on a hot day.