Swimming - for Healthy People
Many pregnant women choose swimming as it is a gentle form of exercise (always check with your doctor).
Most of us do not live in warm climates and don't have the luxury of an outdoor pool of nearby beach but there are so many community swimming pools available that provide an all year round opportunity to swim.
So many people have problems with joint pain, back pain or are perhaps carrying too much weight. These health issues cause immense discomfort during normal exercise routines and because of this many do not participate in exercise, this of course is not a good decision.
Exercise and an active lifestyle have been shown to benefit people with arthritis and can help too prevent osteoporosis and improve the joints.
This is where Swimming comes in. Swimming is a low-impact exercise with high resistance and it does not put too much pressure on your joints.
For those who find swimming alone boring you can join in an aerobic swimming exercise class and other forms of exercise. These have virtually no stress on joints and bones because of the natural elasticity of your body in the water.
Swimming also increases your stamina and endurance which improves athletic ability in other areas of life.
If you are new to this form of exercise start slowly and increase your level of exercise over time. Water provides natural resistance so you may notice dramatic effects of this type of exercise.
Above Ground Swimming Pools - Install Your Own!
If for any reason you are not comfortable going to a public community pool you can have private swim sessions at home, by installing your own! There are many places online where you can look at very reasonable above ground pools. You do not need an Olympic size pool to reap the benefits and you may be fortunate enough to live in a warm climate where you can house an above ground pool in your garden. These are big enough for a routine workout, less expensive over time than a gym and always there for you to use any time of night and day. Also great fun for the family. Get your children exercising.
NEVER leave a child unatttended around water at any time, no matter how deep and make sure they have on the correct Safety Swimming Aids.
If you can only swim in the warm months of the year take the opportunity to add this invaluable form of exercise whenever you can - you will reap great benefits!
Swimming - "If In Doubt - Get Out"!
Swimming is great fun but can also be extremely life threatening if due care is not taken.
There is nothing like the feeling of swimming in open waters, whether it is the sea or a lake or river. Its a spiritual experience for many. For those training it sets the perfect training ground for whats to come. Swimming pools can only provide you with limited challenges. For pleasure seekers beautiful scenery, good friends, a few drinks and good food sets an idyllic setting. The temptation is sometimes too hard to resist and logical thinking goes out the window.
Important Things To Consider:
* Never swim alone
Always swim with a friend or join a group and swim together. Open waters can hide many risks. Currents, seaweed, fogs and boats are but a few. Make sure there is always someone around to help if necessary.
* Sunscreen
Waterproof sunscreen should be used by everyone, especially if you are fair skinned or susceptable to burning. Choose the correct factor and apply 20 minutes before going into the sun and repeat as per instructions after swimming.
* Wet Suits Swim Caps and Earplugs
If the water is cold, dont just jump in. Your body has to adjust to the water temperature gradually. If the Below 65 degrees Fahrenheit, wear a wet suit. A swim cap and earplugs help to keep your head warm. Ear plugs also guard against earache and infections. Ease yourself into the cold water and start with a session of around 15 minutes the first time. Build up to longer swims over time.
Your body temperature drops quicker in water and you need to get warm again. After a cold water swim take off your wet suit, wrap yourself in a towel, have a warm drink and waer warm clothes.
* Swimming Goggles
Do you wear glasses? In the open water it is important to see where you're going and to look out for any boats. You can get prescription swimming goggles or wear daily disposable contact lenses with non-prescription goggles over them. Use Blue tint lenses when the weather is cloudy and dark lenses for bright sunny days.
* Weather Warnings
Fog - Take extra care, its too easy to lose sight of the shore and get lost in dense fog.
Lightning storms - DON'T SWIM !
* Creams and Lotions
Swimming in salt water can cause chaffing and sore dry skin to many. On areas where friction occurs rub on Petroleum Jelly or other recommended lotions.
* Unseen dangers
Its easy to get tangled up in seaweed. Don't kick around when in areas of seaweed as it can wrap around your legs. Try to stay high when you are in the water.
Swimming is one of the best forms for overall exercise, just use due dilligence and keep safe.