2. Get a full body workout
Swimming uses all the muscles in the body and counts as both cardio and strength training, even when you are doing a gentle breaststroke. So it also has the benefit of working out muscles that you wouldn’t otherwise.
3. A shorter workout with the same results
Exercising in water makes your body work harder, so 30 minutes in a pool is worth 45 minutes of the same activity on land. Leaving time for that all important soak in the jacuzzi afterwards
4. De-stress and relax
Swimming regularly has been shown to lower stress levels, reduce anxiety and depression, and improve your sleep patterns. Submerging in water helps to reduce the amount of sensory overload we get. You also can’t check your phone in the pool unlike on the cross trainer. So if work, the kids or just life in general is stressing you out, try swimming.
5. Burn those calories
Swimming is one of the most effective ways to burn calories. Even a gentle swim can burn over 200 calories in just half an hour which is almost twice as fast as walking for the same amount of time.
6. Slow down ageing
It might not stop the wrinkles but swimming regularly can reduce the signs of ageing by reducing blood pressure, increasing muscle mass, improving oxygen and blood flow to the brain, and increasing cardiovascular health.
7.It makes you smarter
Ok, so this benefit is actually still under investigation. But, studies have actually discovered that blood flow to the brain increased by up to 14 % when people submerged themselves in water up to their chests.
8. Anyone Can Do It
Whether you’re recovering from an injury, pregnant, a new Mum, or a fitness fanatic, swimming can give you a great workout. You control the pace, intensity, and what you get out of every session, the key is to push yourself a little.
I prefer swimming that heading to the gym, as it’s exercising without feeling like your exercising if that makes sense, in fact I’m heading to the pool after work today! (I might fit in a sneaky sauna too!) x