What are the benefits of swimming?

Swimming is excellent cardio, but unlike running and walking, it can be a little less accessible. In fact, in order to train effectively and safely, you need to know different styles and find a pool that is supervised by a lifeguard class near me.

While it may require a little more preparation than other types of exercise, swimming has benefits that other activities, such as walking and cycling, cannot offer.

Five potential health benefits of swimming

A swim workout doesn't offer the same sensory experience as hiking, cycling or running, but that doesn't mean it can't be just as exciting. In fact, swimming offers several advantages from a physical and mental point of view compared to other forms of exercise.

1 . It's a complete workout

Unlike other endurance activities, swimming is a cardio workout that engages the whole body. You'll use your arm muscles (biceps and triceps) to move forward through the water, and your shoulder muscles (deltoids) and back muscles (lats) to achieve stronger, faster strokes. Your core keeps your body in an aligned, streamlined position, while your glute and leg muscles are activated as you kick your legs to propel your body forward.

While swimming doesn't offer the same strength-training benefits as weightlifting, there are special strategies for building endurance and strengthening muscles when you swim. For example, many male and female swimmers use paddles to increase water resistance and develop stronger, more efficient strokes.

2 . Swimming can be a meditative activity

Performing a rhythmic and repetitive activity while immersed in water can represent, for many people, a moment of meditation. Some people call it "mindful swimming."

Laughlin goes on to suggest that swimmers should have the intention of being fully present in the water, focusing on breathing and executing the movement. He then adds that listening to the sounds that are produced in the tank and practicing gratitude can offer further benefits to mental well-being.

3 . It can help reduce body fat

In combination with a healthy diet, regular swimming workouts can help improve body composition (ratio of muscle mass to fat mass). However, it is important to note that, compared to the occasional water workout, it is an intense practice that guarantees the greatest benefits.

4 . Generally, this is a safe, low-impact workout

Many contact sports and individual athletic activities carry some risk of injury to the musculoskeletal system. This case includes impact with the ground, with other players or with equipment, which can cause bruises, fractures or even more serious injuries. From this point of view, swimming undoubtedly offers a safer training environment.

5 . It can improve blood pressure levels

Swimming can help you reduce your risk of developing hypertension or high blood pressure. According to a 2018 study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology , swimming can help lower blood pressure even if the disorder has already been diagnosed.

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