Earth consists of 71% water and approximately 96% of that water is in the oceans. The earth also has an approximate population of a little over 7 billion people, 4 billion of whom cannot swim well enough to save themselves. These numbers are devastating.
Swimming is a sport ranked fourth most popular in the United States. It is a form of exercise that is appropriate for children as young as two years and elderly persons. Parents are now taking the initiative of enrolling their kids into swim schools like Aquatics Academy to learn how to swim, practice lifeguard basics and master first aid services.
Thinking of swimming? For new swimmers and old, here are some of the benefits swimming can offer:
- FULL BODY WORKOUT
One thing about swimming is that it works out your whole body. It is an exercise that tones body muscles and promotes muscle strength plus endurance.
The different swim styles target various muscle groups as the water offers some resistance.
- CARDIOVASCULAR BENEFITS
Apart from the outer body workout, swimming offers cardiovascular workouts that directly target the heart and lungs. Researchers state that it also plays a big role in minimizing the risk of heart attacks.
- PAIN RELIEF
Swimming is a sport that even people living with disabilities can take part in. It has been reported that people suffering from arthritis have had significant reductions in joint pain after indulging in swimming exercises.
- GOOD FOR ASTHMA
It was stated earlier that swimming offers cardiovascular benefits. These benefits come in handy in asthma patients. Swimming effectively expands their lungs, making them have better control of their breathing.
However, people with asthma should avoid swimming in pools treated with chlorine and opt for salt water pools, as this chemical may increase their risk of suffering from attacks.
- FOR PREGNANCY
Apart from walking, swimming is another exercise that is safe for pregnant woman from conception to birth.
However, expectant mothers should first speak to their doctors to see if it is safe for them to swim or if it may be a problem.
- STRESS RELIEVER
Swimming is fun. When swimming, the body releases feel-good hormones known as endorphins. These hormones trigger a positive feeling making you feel more relaxed and stress-free.
- BETTER QUALITY SLEEP
Insomnia is a sleep disorder that is common among older people. Just like aerobic exercises, swimming improves quality of sleep.
- PERFECT FOR KIDS
Children need at least an hour of regular exercise. If your child does not like going out to play with other kids, you can suggest swimming. Your children will love it and not view it as a chore but as a fun recreational activity.
When introducing your kids to swimming, you can either choose to enroll them in classes that have structured swimming or you can go for unstructured swimming and let them have their fun.
- AFFORDABLE
Swimming is one of the most affordable activities around. Many pools offer affordable rates to swimmers. These rates can be in the form of monthly or annual packages. There are also facilities that offer free swimming to the public for a couple of hours, once or twice in a week.
Swimming is a fun activity with a lot of benefits. However, caution should be taken when dealing with children. Children should swim with maximum supervision.
For new swimmers, start with a few laps and work your way up. Most of all, remember to drink lots of water and have fun.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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