Next Level H2O - How Swimming Can Benefit You

Aerobic Benefits of Swimming

Our affinity to water goes far deeper than the pools or oceans we swim in.

It is found on a cellular level of our being. “According to H.H. Mitchell, Journal of Biological Chemistry 158, the brain and heart are composed of 73% water, and the lungs are about 83% water. The skin contains 64% water, muscles and kidneys are 79%, and even the bones are watery: 31%.”

Competitive swimmers put their hearts into every practice, literally. Aerobic “with oxygen” training is a term often used when referring to the sport, and relates to a type of training that strengthens cardiovascular activity and health. This is exemplified through long distance practices, where you are focused on different breathing patterns.

Ever had a coach tell you to do a 100 Freestyle breathing every three?

If so, you've participated in aerobic exercise!

A competitive swimmer can do up to three hours of this activity 6 days a week!

Anaerobic Benefits of Swimming

Anaerobic “without oxygen” training, is another form of exercise in which the swimmer doesn't need oxygen to execute. These exercises are displayed through short bursts of energy. For example, quick sprints during a main set of practice. In these instances your body isn't using oxygen as its main supply of energy rather stored energy like glucose.

The benefits of both of these forms of exercise include: lowered blood pressure, boosting your mood, activating your immune systems, losing weight, and even living longer!

When we’re not swimming our hearts out, water can also provide incredible relaxation and comfort. When we physically enter water, our body can rest muscles used every day, and work others that are used far less frequently. Furthermore, we give up our gravity, something that’s physically a break for your brain. For many, swimming can be a source of creativity, inspiration, and clarity.

Whether we are practicing for the Olympic trials, or taking a load off from a long day, water remains versatile and vital to a healthy life. If you're apprehensive about getting in the pool we encourage you to take the plunge! Everyone has the capacity to be a great swimmer and the right to enjoy a cool relaxing swim.