Just Keep Swimming!

Swimming is called the perfect exercise. From head to toe, swimming engages your entire body by using several muscle groups in unison. It increases your heart rate and improves the health of the cardiorespiratory system. It develops the endurance of your arm and leg muscles; the core muscles are called upon to support the spine.  This act of self-propulsion through water also allows you to float! The hydrostatic pressure of water cushions the body and acts like a massage to the muscles; as a result, you feel exhilarated and refreshed.

Up to 6 months of age, a newborn displays an inborn swimming reflex. Everyone can swim for a lifetime – young or old. Since the human body is slightly less dense than water (relative density of 0.98), water supports the weight of the body during swimming and so is gentle on your joints. Swimming is ideal exercise for building strength and stamina if you are suffering from orthopaedic problems like arthritis. Your joints get a workout in a weightless, no-impact (non-damaging) environment.

Resistance of water demands a greater calorie expenditure – about 25% more than other cardio activities for the same distance covered on land. Since swimming depends on strong lung strength and breathing control to oxygenate the muscles, the training gained in the pool can assist you in breathing more efficiently during running sessions and races.

Lata Rajan
Senior Faculty (Exercise Science)
K11 Academy of Fitness Sciences
By
Fitness Icon Kaizzad Capadia