More Than Physical Exercise
Swimming: More than just physical exercise.
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of stepping into the pool or tiptoeing into the sea for a swim – it is as if you can literally feel all of life's woes and strains slipping away.
The perfect form of exercise for all ages, water is around 800 times denser than air, meaning your body has to work harder to move through it. Think of it this way: 30 minutes of swimming is worth 45 minutes of the same activity on land, meaning there's now never a better time to get active in the water.
Swimming is good for your mind
Swimming is more than just physical exercise, it’s also a great way of boosting your mental wellbeing.
Why? Well, for starters, it releases those all-important feel-good endorphins we all benefit from after any sort of workout, increasing positivity leading to anxiety and reduced stress levels. A study of 4,000 swimmers saw 68% felt happier in themselves after being in the water.
It’s a great way to socialize
Swimming is said to be one of the best sports for combatting loneliness and improving mental wellbeing. Joining a swim group or popping along to your local lake can be a great way to make new friends or even just to have a chat with people outside of your usual circle.
Open Water swimming has grown by 45% since 2020 and is fast becoming a popular outlet for people to relieve stress. Open water swimming venues offer swimmers the chance to come for a dip, a swim or even just a natter by the lake with a hot beverage for their post-swim refuel.
It’s great for our bodies
Swimming is great for our joints and chronic conditions. Swimming is the perfect low impact exercise due to around 90% of your body being supported by the water. The weightless environment helps you make movements that would otherwise be painful in normal situations.
Studies have shown that swimming in a heated pool – one that’s between 82 – 88 degrees – reduces pain, allowing your muscles to relax.
Asthma sufferers can also reap the benefits of swimming with research showing it can improve lung function and reduce symptoms.
So, if you’re in a funk or want to try something new, why not head out to your local pool or lake venue!
You’re one swim away from a good mood.
