Get in that pool! by Alex Rapacioli
18.08.2010
Having been a competitive swimmer for most of my life, and still to this day using it as part of my training regime, I would like to remind those who have forgotten how great this natural form of training is.
I think there is a definite reason why swimmers are amongst the fittest, toned and most injury free people in the world. Swimming is a healthy and relaxing activity for all to do whilst toning every muscle in your body, and at the same time providing a great cardiovascular workout. Not only this but it strengthens your heart muscles and dramatically improves flow of oxygen to your muscles.
What I've learnt over the years from my own experience and client feedback is that swimming provides you with several physical, social and mental benefits. Some of these include improved muscle tone and flexibility, enhanced muscular stamina and balance, a stronger heart (vital for living J) and a better physique or figure. And apart from this swimming acts as a great remedy for healing muscles.
As mentioned before, anybody can get in the water; for example if you’re overweight it can aid in weight control whilst relieving your mind from stress and refuelling your energy levels to a great extent. Another example is that it's very helpful for individuals who are obese, or individuals suffering from leg or lower back problems. It offers some aerobic benefits whilst not putting any strain on connective tissues like some other forms of training might do with the less able individual.
Ok convinced?? Not quite? ok! Now lets get down to what generally 90% of everybody is interested in- Calories!!! Swimming is a great calorie burner ranging from 600 to 1000 calories burned in 1 hr, which is why it's gaining a lot more popularity from top physical athletes to the lesser challenged individual.
So as you can see anybody in every level of fitness, shape, size or age can benefit from this great activity! What's that? Oh, you're pregnant and reading this, Great!! Pregnant women benefit the MOST from swimming; it strengthens your abdominals/wall, vital for carrying a baby. In addition it strengthens the back and the muscles that help post-mastectomy women carry their weight more easily. And you'll be pleased to know that exercising in water considerably reduces joint stiffness, high blood pressure, and discomfort which is all associated with pregnancy.
So good luck- I guess every now and then it IS good to just jump in at the deep end!!
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