Absolutely! Exercising in water is a low-impact form of cardiovascular exercise that puts little stress on the joints and uses several muscle groups including legs , arms and abdominals. Swimming is a great fitness activity that can actually be enjoyed any time of the year. You’re not limited to just the summer months–when the temperature starts to drop , dive into your gym’s pool for a full-body workout. Before you begin swimming for exercise , here are some key points to remember: - There are many styles of swimming. It is important to find which type works best for you. The backstroke and sidestroke can be good for beginners , while the freestyle and breaststroke are more challenging.
- Controlled and rhythmic breathing is key for efficient swimming and stroke technique. To avoid water intake , make sure to breathe out of your nose when your face is underwater.
- Get the right equipment. Besides making sure that you have a comfortable swimsuit to wear , you may also want to purchase goggles or a swim cap to enhance your swimming experience.
- You’re not limited by just swimming! If traditional swim strokes don’t appeal to you , try water-walking in the shallow end or water-running in the deep end for a great cardiovascular workout.
- Check out swim classes at a local gym or club. Whether you’re a beginner wanting to feel more comfortable in the water or an advanced swimmer looking for a challenging workout , you can find a class that works best for you.
Swimming will challenge your endurance , so start at a slow and comfortable pace and gradually increase your intensity. With time , practice , and consistency , you can increase your swimming speed and master a variety of swim strokes. Remember , before beginning any new type of exercise , be sure to check with your doctor first. And if you’re a member with access to the Wellness Coaching program , reach out to your Wellness Coach for more tips and advice on swimming for exercise. Have a question for a ? Email nhess@healthadvocate.com , and your question may be the topic of an upcoming “Ask a ” column!
