The Benefits of Swimming 

Swimming is not only a fun summertime activity, but it is also a great way to get into shape. When rhythmically moving your body in a water environment, you improve your cardiorespiratory system, strengthen your muscles and increases your overall endurance. As an added bonus, the buoyancy of the water reduces stress on the joints, especially important for aging joints.

Exercising in the water can also help you to control your weight. Swimming for 30 minutes will burn about the same number of calories as running for 30 minutes. Water resistance puts a high demand on the heart and lungs; your whole body is working hard. It is truly a whole-body workout.

Like most forms of exercise, swimming can help prevent common diseases such as type-2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke.

It is important to mention the mental health benefits of swimming. Unlike some forms of exercise, swimming can make you feel more relaxed. The rhythmic nature of the body movements can have a calming effect on the nervous system. And like most forms of exercise, swimming has positive effects on overall mental health and your sense of well-being.

Make sure that you include swimming on your list of things to do this summer!

Marcia Spoto, PT, DC, OCS