Top 4 Reasons To Try Swimming
It's fall in Minnesota and even though the environment is telling you to slow down, we're here to tell you the reasons why you should stay active. For the next few weeks, we're sharing 4 reasons why you should try specific workouts or activities. This week, it's swimming!
-------
True, as the weather gets colder perhaps the last thing we want to think about is being wet. But when swimmers are forced to move indoors after their natural resources freeze over, they're often greeted with a burst of warm air. Which, when combined with the water, can wash away your winter blues.
This post isn't just to motivate people to get back in the pool. Even though much of Minnesota's natural landscape lends itself to swimming, there are still a good number of people who don't know how to swim. So, if you've never dared to take a dip, let it also serve as a reason why you should learn. Here are four reasons why you should jump on in.
It's Accessible
Minnesota, home of 10,000 lakes, most of which can be swam in. One of the advantages of living in Minnesota, when the weather allows it, is we have beautiful waters ripe for the swimming. Lake Calhoun in Minneapolis has three swimming beaches alone! Some public beaches even offer swimming lessons. There are also a number of public outdoor pools that offer affordable rates. And when winter hits, head indoors to a number of community center and YMCAs across the metro area. It's also accessible to people of every age.
It's Low-Impact
When it comes to exercising and sports, a big concern for athletes of all ages is injuries. Unlike contact sports, running or weight lifting, swimming is softer on the body. According to Swimming World, the body is 90 percent buoyant when it's in water up to the neck. So, unlike running or lifting, when a person moves in the water they aren't throwing their weight onto a particular part of the body, which helps joints and muscles. Swimming injuries can happen, but it is easier to rest an injured body part by switching between strokes. The same can be said if mending an injury from another sporting activity. Due to it being low-impact, it's also great for elderly athletes and those with disabilities.
It Works Out Everything
Seriously. It may not seem as intense as weight lifting or as high-intensity as a good run, but a good swim can work out pretty much every muscle group in your body. It can help tone arms, back, core, legs and glutes. Different strokes focus on different muscles, but basic laps will help the whole body tone and strengthen. It's also a great cardio workout that can help boost your endurance. Also, even when you're splashing around for fun you're still burning calories.
It's Individual And Social
Some people love to work out with others or have a buddy to hold them accountable for their time at the gym. Others love to do their workouts alone. Whatever your preference, you can do that with swimming.
-------
Before fall completely turns way to winter, here are some of the best public pools in Minnesota, and a look at where to find swimming classes.
