Many people cycle or run to get fit but don't think of swimming as
another major route to a heathlier lifestyle. What a mistake.
Did you know that even a gentle swim can burn over 200 Kcal in half an
hour and a fast front crawl can burn as many calories as an 8mph run? It is true.
Therefore, it seems appropriate to offer a brief recap of the main
reasons why everyone can benefit from swimming as a primary, secondary
or alternative form of physical fitness to complement their existing
routine.
1. Heart Helper
Swimming provides unparalleled cardiovascular conditioning, provided
you practice consistently and with good technique. While other forms of
exercise may be more effective at elite levels (such as running or
cycling), incorporating swimming into a cross-training routine and
pushing yourself in practice will result in overall improved fitness.
2. Balance Your Build
Swimming builds longer, leaner muscles that complement the shorter
denser muscles that develop from weight training. These "swimmer's
muscles" also help boost metabolism to keep calories burning longer.
3. Endurance
Swimmers are able to swim longer than they can what they could sustain
doing other activities. With the right technique, a swimmer will be able
to train for longer periods of time than if he/she were running and, as
a result, more calories are burned.
4. Burning calories
It's a great way to burn calories: an hour of swimming burns 500 calories.
5. It’s refreshing
Jumping into a pool is refreshing! You don’t need to be a professional
swimmer to reap the benefits. Have fun with it, and enjoy being in the
water. If anything, you’ll walk away with a nice tan and an endorphin
kick!