Swimming is for Everyone


by Lyla Feldman - Date: 2008-07-25 - Word Count: 360 Share This!

You may be a runner, a yogi, a walker or a sports buff, but everyone can benefit from swimming.  You may have a fear of the water stemming from a bad childhood incident that is preventing you from swimming.  Or you may not know the proper techniques involved in swimming laps in an Olympic size pool.  Have no fear, with a few simple tips you will be on your way to becoming a seasoned swimmer or at least look like one.

 

Swimming as a cardio exercise is widely recommended by most doctors because it doesn't apply harsh pressure on the joints.  It is a whole body workout for people who have injuries, musculoskeletal, arthritis, or weight limitations.  Professional athletes train in water after injuries to regain their strength or cross train to improve their range of motion.  People with disabilities or joint stiffness use swimming as a means to relieve pain.  It incorporates all muscle groups - giving strength to back, shoulders, hips, glutes, and legs.  Water gives 12 times the resistance as similar movements in air. 

 

There have been many success stories associated with the positive impact swimming has on physical disabilities.  People can go from getting around in wheel chairs to walking perfectly normal.  Try to enlist a friend who is a good swimmer to show you the basics or get a swim coach.  I am not a swimmer, never have been in my entire life until I had an injury  Start by swimming for about 10-15 minutes at a time, then work up to 30 minutes a few times a week.  

 

Don't get frustrated- learning swim styles besides the doggy paddle can seem overwhelming.  You can use a kickboard to feel more comfortable or begin by running in place in the water.  It is a great workout and it can be very calming, as well.  You just need a bathing suit that won't fall off and some eye goggles.  It took me awhile to get acclimated because I felt awkward and didn't know what I was doing.  Some kind soul showed me the way and I am hooked!  Just dive right in!  What have you got to lose? 

 


 

 

 


Related Tags: energy drinks, sleep aids, strength training, cardio workout, natural sleep aids, natural energy drinks

Lyla Feldman writes articles about striving towards a healthy lifestyle. Some of her favorite passions include writing about energy drinks and natural sleep aids.

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