If you’re bored of the gym or your evening run just does not t cut it anymore, here I share some reasons, why to choose swimming instead ;).
1. Fall in love with swimming
Swimming is one of those 'workouts' that can easily be a second thought as the gym always seems to take priority, right? Only as you step into the pool do you ask yourself, why haven’t I done this sooner? :) And yes, I do fall in love with swimming every time I decide to go to the pool.
It's awesome, kids love it too, beside I can recover from daily gym.Yes, swimming is an absolute winner when you need to recover or build on your flexibility.
2. Swimming will speed up your much needed recovery
As a 'low impact' sport, swimming can also help relieve aches and pains. Especially if you’re suffering from a bad back or knee pain, swimming could be just the exercise you need to take the pressure off. Its rehabilitating effect stems from the fact that it isn’t a 'weight bearing' workout. Beside, the water provides support as you stretch, relax and heal.
3. With swimming you can work on your flexibility too
Coupled with yoga and pilates, swimming is up there as one of the best sports in promoting flexibility. It stretches and tones the areas of your body that are neglected as a result of sedentary living, including the hips, back and hamstrings. Also, if you’ve a very 'weight driven or/and cardio heavy training schedule', it’s easy to forget the role flexibility has in improving your sporting performance. It strengthens, sculpts, and helps you pick up speed. Gradually increase your range of motion through swimming. Features of the pool such as the water resistance and buoyancy reduce the impact of the exercise on your joints, enabling you to stretch and flex comfortably and effectively :) Did I convince you already ;)
4. Swimming as a great core workout
Yes, trust me ;) Just don’t tire yourself out with crunch after crunch. Take a dip in the pool instead. Again, swimming is a great core workout. Advise? ;) - To stay perfectly aligned and at your own pace, you need to ensure that your core is engaged (at all times). At first, you may struggle to keep your stomach strong and tight and swim well at the same time to begin with. But the more you practice, the more familiar it will become. And then, you will eventually do it instinctively from 'push off'. Just practise and see what happens ;)
5. Get strong(er) heart with swimming
Cannot argue with the fact that swimming boosts heart health :). As a total body workout, swimming is one of the best exercises at boosting cardiovascular health. The resistance of the water makes the heart work harder, improving circulation (blood) flow as a result. The natural buoyancy and warm temperature of the pool also stops you from feeling the actual intensity of your training, allowing you to push harder and faster in your cardio workout, and strengthen your heart even further. If you want to naturally lower your blood pressure, swimming is a great way to do it.
6. Feeling stressed?
Trust me, go swimming. It does relieve stress. However, exercising may not be your first choice when it comes to relaxing in the evening, lounging in front of the television, right? Now you’re talking. But little do people realise that swimming provides greater stress relief than your 'other' favourites. Just get out of your comfort zone, for once ;). Endorphins aside, not only does swimming stimulate those lovely 'mood boosting' hormones, but it also provides an opportunity for you to clear your mind and take perspective of your day.
7. Improve your breathing with swimming
Swimming gives you breathing space, literally. On average, we breathe anything between 12-20 breaths a minute; it’s second nature to us. That being said, a large proportion of us also suffer from 'stress related' symptoms - let's be honest ;). So, when we feel stressed or anxious, our muscles start to tense and tighten up. This makes breathing harder, to the extent you might experience a shortness of breath :) So, watch out your breathing and stop when needed.
However, swimming helps to calm and regulate your breathing. As you work on perfecting your stroke and technique, your breathing improves alongside, which in turn can help lower blood pressure, aid weight loss and eliminate toxins. Swimming is the ideal workout and it does encourage you to open up your lungs and control your breathing. (you should be practising breathing though, even when not in the pool ;)).
So, if you’re looking for a workout that breaks up your gym routine, swimming is the exercise for you. Even if you need music to train effectively, there are waterproof earphones available now to keep you company when you’re swimming ;)
And remember, floats are sure not just for the kids. Make it fun, grab a whole family and take them swimming. You (without a doubt) will have an awesome quality time together. What not to love - it's a win win situation :).
Until next time, S.
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