On hot days, visiting beaches and swimming pools is a source of happiness, especially after the end of the exam season and the start of summer vacation. But are the benefits of swimming only recreational? Certainly not, because it has several advantages.

After reading this article and learning about the benefits of swimming, you will spend the most of your summer participating in this activity.

Health benefits of swimming

Swimming is a great exercise because you move your entire body against the resistance of the water, and it helps in:

• Maintaining the health of your lungs and heart
• Strengthening your muscles. Swimming is considered an exercise for the whole body because you use almost all of your muscles.
• Reducing pressure on weight-bearing joints such as the knees and ankles.
• Relieve stress and improve your mood because your body releases natural endorphins when you exercise.
• Relax and clear your mind of negative thoughts
• Offers some health benefits.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Improve your ability to exercise for longer periods.
• Increase the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain, which leads to better memory and a feeling of greater alertness.

Can I go swimming?

Swimming is an appropriate way to exercise and is great for all ages. Swimming has several benefits for people who suffer from joint and muscle pain such as arthritis! Swimming can help to alleviate stiffness and increase mobility.

Tips at the beginning

• If you are new to swimming or this is the first time you practice swimming, see your doctor first before you start training, especially if you are over 55 years old or suffer from some diseases.
• Don’t forget to warm up and stretch, to help prevent cramps or injuries. Never swim if there is no lifeguard on duty.
• Follow safety signs at the pool or beach.
• If you have gastroenteritis, diarrhea or vomiting, do not swim for at least two weeks after these symptoms stop to avoid spreading the disease to others.
• Make sure the water is safe for children.
• Drink plenty of fluids and drink regularly.
• Do not swim for long periods at first.

Finally, don’t forget your

• UV protection goggles
• Swimming cap
• Sunscreen, if you are swimming outdoors