3 Reasons to Make Swimming an Exercise Staple
By Genevieve Cunningham
It’s summer, which means that swimming has been on everyone’s mind. Taking a dip in a cool pool on a hot day feels so good. It’s a favorite summer pastime of many. But swimming is more than just a relaxing activity for hot summer days. It can also be a great workout. If you enjoy a dip in the water, take a look at why you should add swimming to your workout routine all year long.
It Allows Ample Range of Motion
The buoyancy of the water makes swimming an excellent exercise for deepening and widening your range of motion. When you get in the water, your body feels lighter, which takes a great deal of tension and pressure off of the joints and the body as a whole. When you swim, you may be able to move your body and joints a little wider and a little deeper than before, which makes it great for alleviating pain and improving flexibility. In the long run, this pays off big since flexibility naturally diminishes as you age.
It Burns Calories
Swimming is hard work. Many of us simply lounge when we get in the water, but if you truly take a swim, it really works the muscles and taxes the lungs. You may even find your face burning as your swim gets longer and more challenging. If you want to work the body and burn some calories, but maybe not be dripping with sweat, swimming might be a great option.
It is a Lifelong Exercise
Swimming is considered fairly low impact. It’s challenging, but it’s not hard on the joints or the body as a whole. It won’t damage the knees from pounding on pavement or require major strain on the shoulders. And because it’s easy on the body, it’s an exercise that can be done throughout your entire life. This means that staying in shape is easier both now as well as long into the future.
If you’re not currently swimming for exercise, it might be time to consider giving it a try. It’s a great way to get and stay in shape without overtaxing the body. It feels good, relaxes the nerves, and still works the body like no other. If you’re ready to give it a try, find a pool, take a dip, and enjoy the healthy benefits that come with it.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Monterey Park, Calif.