For many, swimming is a pastime that conjures up memories of carefree summers. But did you know swimming is more than just a fun way to cool off on a hot day? It's also a versatile exercise that offers several physical and mental health benefits.
In this article, we'll explore some of the incredible benefits of swimming as an exercise. And if you're considering building a pool in your backyard but are concerned about the cost, there are options for pool financing available to help you afford a pool and the healthy lifestyle swimming allows you.
Low-impact exercise
Unlike other high-impact exercises like running or jumping, swimming is gentle on your joints and offers a low-impact workout that's easy on your body.
When you swim, the buoyancy of the water takes the pressure off your joints, allowing you to move more freely without putting excessive strain on your knees, hips, or other joints.
That's why swimming is a great option for people with joint pain, arthritis, or other conditions that limit their ability to do high-impact exercises.
Full body workout
When you swim, you use your arms, legs, core, and back muscles to move through the water, which helps build overall strength and endurance.
In terms of upper body strength, swimming is particularly effective at targeting the muscles in your back, shoulders, and arms. Depending on your stroke, you may use different muscles to power your movements. For example, the butterfly stroke engages your chest, back, and shoulders to create a powerful swimming motion.
Swimming is also great for lower body strength, as it engages your legs and hips muscles. The kicking motion used in swimming can help tone and strengthen your glutes, quads, and hamstrings.
Stress relief
The repetitive motions and rhythmic breathing required for swimming can calm your mind and body, making it a fantastic way to unwind after a long day.
Swimming can put you in a meditative state where you can clear your mind and focus solely on your movements and breathing. Being in the water can also provide a sense of weightlessness that can be incredibly relaxing and help you feel more in the moment.
And if you have trouble sleeping, swimming could be just what you need to catch some zzzs. A study by the National Sleep Foundation found that regular exercise, including swimming, can help improve sleep quality and duration.
Improved flexibility
When you swim, your body moves through the water, which provides a natural resistance that works your muscles. This resistance can help lengthen and tone your muscles, improving your overall flexibility, posture, and range of motion.
Calorie burning
Swimming is an excellent way to burn calories, whether you're looking to shed a few pounds or maintain your current weight.
For example, if a 150 pound person swims using the breaststroke, they could burn approximately 379 calories per hour at a light to moderate intensity level or 737 calories per hour at a moderate to vigorous intensity level. And if you prefer freestyle swimming, you can expect to burn approximately 594 calories per hour at a light to moderate intensity level or 716 calories per hour at a moderate to vigorous intensity level.
Bottom Line
There's no denying that swimming is one of the most incredible exercises out there. It's low-impact, full-body, and offers many benefits for your physical and mental health.
And remember, you can always consider pool financing to help you get the pool of your dreams.
Notice: Information provided in this article is for information purposes only and does not necessarily reflect the views of therebelchick.com/ or its employees. Please be sure to consult your financial advisor about your financial circumstances and options. This site may receive compensation from advertisers for links to third-party websites.
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