The Benefits of Swimming

From weight loss to improved sleep quality: here are seven reasons why swimming is a complete and effective sport

The benefits of swimming are virtually limitless. It's a great way to firm up and a proven method of relaxation, which can even help fight aging. We'll tell you why we think everyone should take the time to swim with Lifeguard Course .

• Almost everyone can swim
• 30 minutes of swimming can burn up to 350 calories
• Swimming builds lean muscle mass
• Many swimmers claim it helps relieve aches and pains
• Swimming helps you sleep better
• Regular physical activity improves your mood
• Swimming has a low risk of injury

Can everyone swim?

Swimming is great for everyone, from pregnant women and the elderly, to injured athletes and those who want to get back into shape or improve their fitness quickly. If you have the slightest doubt or if you are coming out of a long period of inactivity, consult your doctor before starting, in order to avoid overloading American Lifeguard USA.

Why is swimming so beneficial?

Swimming is one of the best forms of cardiovascular or aerobic exercise because it engages virtually every muscle in the body, while increasing heart rate*. According to a study, 12 weeks of swimming can improve the efficiency of blood circulation by 18%, and since water is almost 800 times denser than air, it is ideal for toning your body. , without putting extra pressure on your joints. It even slows down the aging process: scientists have shown that swimming between 3 and 5 times a week drastically reduces the risk of premature death.

What muscles do you use when you What muscles do you use when  swimming?

Each time you swim is equivalent to a mini resistance session. With every kick, pull, or push, your muscles work harder than you think, especially your arms, shoulders, and glutes—the muscles that sit idle when you're in the office. Swimming also solicits your abs, or rather your abdominal belt, and in fact reduces your waist and your hips. It is a resolutely complete exercise, which contributes to the strengthening of your body.

Can swimming improve your mood?

According to researchers, regular swimming can reduce stress, anxiety and fight depression, regardless of your fitness level and ability. Being immersed in water dulls the sensations, allowing your body to be much more relaxed than in a gym, surrounded by mirrors and loud music.

And if you prefer to swim outdoors, recent studies have proven that swimming in open water and in nature is a superb way (if it's cool) to improve your mood, your cognitive faculties and to "high" naturally. Being outdoors will give you your vital vitamin D fix, even during the darkest winter months. For more information on how to swim outdoors safely:  //www.speedo.com/uk/en/explore/blog/water-safety/846faabf-398d-4ad6-88e0-33aa50e8ee5a.html

Does swimming allow you to lose weight?

Yes. Swimming burns calories and is ideal for losing weight or reducing body fat. By swimming at a steady pace for 30 minutes, expect to burn up to 350 calories, while a full hour in the pool will burn more than double that. As a bonus, since swimming builds lean muscle mass, which in turn boosts your metabolism, you'll keep burning calories while showering, drying off, and on the way home.

Does swimming prevent injuries?

Swimming has a lower risk of injury than many other forms of exercise because the buoyancy of the water takes the strain off the joints. It also acts as a natural pain reliever: in a study of people with chronic lower back pain, 90% of people surveyed said they had less pain after six months of regular swimming. As a bonus, swimming has been proven to reduce inflammation and help people with osteoarthritis. *

How can swimming improve the quality of your sleep ?

According to a study conducted by the National Sleep Foundation**, people who engage in regular physical activity, such as swimming, are twice as likely to benefit from quality sleep. They are also less prone to insomnia or early morning awakenings.

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*Source: Amateur Swimming Association (ASA)

** Source: Study conducted June 4-10, 2013 by Vision Critical which interviewed 4,120 randomly selected adults in the UK, US, France and China.

Disclaimer: Always consult a healthcare practitioner before beginning any nutrition or exercise program. These exercise suggestions are not a substitute for proper health advice.