Swimming Introduction

Swimming is one of the very few ways of getting a great amount of exercise that can put almost any part of your body in shape. It can heighten your strength, mental health, and stamina all at one time. The sport focuses on working many muscles in your body such as your biceps, triceps, abdominals, gluteals, hamstrings and quadriceps. Swimming also keeps all your joints flexible, especially in the neck, shoulders, hips and groin. It can be an extremely demanding aerobic exercise that can help keep your heart and lungs healthy. It can be a good sport for anyone ranging from young kids who can just splash around in the water, to the elderly. It is especially good for the elderly because there is small risk of falls and injury (when comparing this exercise to land). There is a great bonus for people who have problems with weight-bearing land-based activities like arthritis or back problems, weight problems or are pregnant. Those with lung conditions, such as asthma, have an easier time in the water because the air round a swimming pool is usually very humid, which makes breathing more comfortable. In fact, research shows you burn about 7.5 calories per minute just treading water.