Swimming is definitely one of the most complete sports that exist . It is an aerobic exercise in which two thirds of the muscles of the body are involved with lifeguard class. Do you want to discover the best benefits of swimming? Continue reading.
First of all, it is a sport that improves endurance and flexibility . In addition, it can be practiced at any age and regardless of physical condition. Of course, the sooner you start, the lower the risk of injury and the greater the benefits to your body in the short and long term.
The best benefits of swimming
In 2017, a study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine pointed to the multiple benefits of regular swimming. Next, we share with you the most relevant ones.
1. It would be beneficial for bone health
This sport produces low impact on the bones and joints because, by immersing the body in water, it “weighs less” since it is governed by the principle of buoyancy .
In this way, the body does not receive the impact of the asphalt or hard surfaces that it faces when practicing other sports . For this reason, many medical specialists recommend swimming for the recovery of many injuries , especially those that have to do with a joint.
In fact, research published in The Journal of Rheumatology found that people with arthritis who swam regularly experienced a significant reduction in joint pain and stiffness.
2. It would improve muscle flexibility
According to data from Harvard Health Publishing , practicing this sport would improve strength , endurance, and flexibility. With this, the elasticity would also improve.
When swimming, we use most of the muscle groups , both in the legs and in the arms. In this way, the joints would be more flexible and the muscles would be toned and strengthened, especially those of the back. For this reason, it would be a useful sport for people who suffer from:
- Hernias .
- Low back pain.
- hip problems .
3. It would reduce the rate of body fat
This is one of the best benefits of swimming, in fact it is the reason why many people choose to practice this sport . With swimming, it is estimated that between 500 and 600 calories could be burned for each hour swum, of course depending on the intensity applied in the practice of the sport.
For this reason, doctors usually recommend the inclusion of swimming in the routines of those who start a weight loss program , of course accompanied by a change in eating habits.
4. It would combat chronic diseases
Practicing sport moderately and constantly is always good for the body. Although there are no specific data on the influence of swimming on cholesterol, it is believed that it would help reduce blood cholesterol levels , while promoting the increase of good cholesterol.
In this regard, an old study from 1993 indicated that those paraplegic people who practiced swimming for a long period of time managed to improve their levels of good cholesterol and, therefore, reduce the risk of heart disease. However, new research is necessary.
On the other hand, it is believed that swimming, like other low-impact sports, could improve some clinical symptoms of asthma , diabetes or hypercholesterolemia, and even reduce the pain of people with multiple sclerosis . However, the scientific data on this is not conclusive.
5. It would improve cognitive activity
Swimming would also provide neural and cognitive benefits, that is, mental. When we practice this sport, we activate the two cerebral hemispheres and the four lobes of the brain .
This activation appears to lead to increased cognition and some protection against possible stroke, as observed in a long-term study in rats . Although the data is promising, we have not found evidence to support this benefit in humans to date.
6. It would enhance the circulatory and respiratory system
Swimming would improve oxygen consumption by up to 10% . According to a comparison of lung capacity with runners , this sport would provide the greatest improvement.
In addition, it is estimated that the heart could pump blood up to 18% more . This would be evidenced in a better circulation since it would decrease the heart rate. On the other hand, breathing exercises would imply an increase in cardiorespiratory resistance .
7. Best benefits of swimming: the psychological ones
By immersing ourselves in the water and concentrating on breathing, an immediate effect would be produced: the body would relax and the feeling of stress would be reduced . An investigation by the Australasian Journal on Aging suggests that it could improve mood and be beneficial for people with severe dementia, it is even believed that the symptoms of depression could also improve.
When practicing swimming, as well as other sports, the body releases hormones called endorphins that promote a positive attitude and a general feeling of well-being.
Best benefits of swimming, conclusion
Swimming is a very complete sports discipline that can promote health in many aspects. The best? It can be practiced by both children and older adults, as it is a low-impact physical exercise that is also recreational.
Still don’t practice this sport? If you have trouble doing physical activity, swimming is a good option to start. From the beginning you will have more vitality and better physical and mental health.
Must Read: HOW TO BREATHE CORRECTLY WHEN SWIMMING