Swim Your Way To Fitness
What’s stopping you getting into the pool? There are lots of fun, easy options…
Swimming is one of the best forms of all-round exercise there is – so dig out that swimsuit and take the plunge!
“There’s a wide range of health and fitness benefits associated with swimming,” says Elaine McNish of Swim England, previously the Amateur Swimming Association. “Swimming increases stamina, boosts fitness levels, increases lung capacity, reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, gives the heart a decent workout and burns up to 350 calories in 30 minutes.
“In addition, the support provided by the water helps relieve painful joints and sore backs, while also helping to prevent osteoporosis and high cholesterol.”
With such fabulous health and fitness benefits, it’s no wonder seven million women in the UK go swimming at least once a month. However that still leaves a large number of us sitting at home, thinking about going for a swim but never quite getting there!
“I hear all sorts of excuses,” reveals Sam Page, swimming co-ordinator at David Lloyd Clubs WWW.DAVIDLLOYD.CO.UK. “However, once in the pool, most women remember how much they love swimming. Even the hassle of drying your hair and putting your make-up back on becomes a minor inconvenience once you’ve established a routine and made it fun!
“When you’re trying to get back into the swimming habit it’s a good idea to opt for a range of pool activities. One day, try swimming a specified number of lengths or for a specific time. On your next visit, try jogging in the shallow end. You could also sign up for aquarobics and aqua-fit, and swim with a friend.”
For maximum benefit, Sam suggests half an hour, two or three times a week.
“Thirty minutes of activity in the water is the equivalent of 60 minutes of land-based physical exercise. As you build up your fitness, you’ll have more energy for other activities.”
If you’ve not swum for some time, Sam suggests taking a few lessons.
“Swimming lessons aren’t just for beginners,” she says.
“A few lessons or an adult swimming class will boost your confidence while also improving your breathing technique, which can make all the difference.”
Elaine of Swim England stresses that it’s worth having lessons even if you’re a regular, confident swimmer.
“Ask at your local pool about one-to-one lessons or look at Swim England’s website – WWW.SWIMMING.ORG – to find out where lessons are available and which would be most appropriate for you.”