When you think of exercise, what activities come to mind? Jogging and running, probably. Maybe cycling, yoga, or weight lifting? But what about swimming? If you don’t currently associate swimming with exercise, there’s good reason to start! Read on to learn more about the benefits of swimming.

Low impact: Swimming is a great exercise option for 55+ adults in particular, because it’s low-impact. That means your joints and body isn’t as stressed as it could be in high-impact activities, like running. The low-impact nature of swimming is due to the buoyancy of water, which allows swimmers to more easily move than they would on land.

Builds muscle: Swimming is a great way to tone your muscles and build muscle strength. This includes your heart muscles, too!

Cardio for healthy lungs: Your heart rate stays fairly high during swimming, depending on your intensity, so it’s a great cardio workout. The cardio workout you get during swimming helps you maintain healthy heart and lungs.

All-over workout: Because almost all of your muscles are used during swimming, it’s a great option if you want an all-over workout.

Improved coordination and posture: Swimming can help improve coordination and posture, both of which are very important to maintain as we age.

Good for the mind: Not all of the benefits of swimming are related to your physical health! Many swimmers find it to be relaxing, stress reducing and peaceful.

Even if you’ve never swam for exercise before, it’s never too late to get started! Be sure to check with your doctor before starting any new exercise regime, and stretch your muscles out before getting started.

For the residents at The Villages at Two Rivers, our indoor and outdoor pools offer an excellent opportunity to learn how to swim for exercise! Grab your goggles, gather the neighbors and head to one of our pools and before you know it, swimming will be your favorite form of exercise  – and you’ll be reaping the benefits!

SOURCE: betterhealth.vic.gov, Bucknell University