If you’re looking for an activity that has an array of health benefits, consider taking up swimming.
It’s a low-cost, low-impact, and relaxing activity that provides a full-body workout.
The main advantage that swimming has over other physical activities is that the buoyancy of the water takes some of the stress off your body. Therefore it’s a great low-impact exercise if you have an injury or condition that doesn’t allow you to participate in more traditional types of exercise. Swimming also allows you to exercise for longer periods of time without additional pressure on joints and muscles.
Swimming provides a great cardiovascular workout as well as a workout for nearly all of your muscles. It helps tone your muscles and builds strength and endurance. It can also improve balance, flexibility, coordination, and posture; all of which can help prevent an array of health problems.
While the physical benefits of swimming may be obvious, there are also hidden benefits such as being good for your mental health. Swimming helps to improve your mood and reduces mental tension and anxiety.
Before you dive into the swimming pool, remember to follow safe swimming behaviour. Make sure the environment you choose to swim in is safe, read the safety signs, speak to lifeguards for safety tips, swim with a partner, and swim within your capabilities.
If swimming laps doesn't appeal there are plenty of exercises you can do in the water without swimming. Pool-based classes such as aqua aerobics are a fun activity for all ages, especially if you prefer exercising in a group.
Swimming offers many physical and mental health benefits, and is an activity you can participate in your entire life, not to mention being a great way to cool down on a hot summer day!
If you would like to learn more about the impacts of exercise on spinal health visit our BLOG or book an appointment for some nutritional and exercise advice.
