Swimming Into Shape

Integrating swimming into your workout is beneficial for many reasons. Spending time in the water is generally a relaxing experience for most, and greatly reduces joint stress or pain. Because of the support the water naturally provides, swimming is usually added to the regiment of those in physical therapy or with other sports related injuries. The water support also attracts participants of all ages and abilities. Swimming also provides a great full body workout, requiring the movement of arms and legs simultaneously.

With the summer in near end, consider adding a few laps to the time you spend a the pool with family and friends. This exercise can be sporadically included in play time, and makes for a great group activity. For those spending time on lakes this summer, consider that open water swimming tends to be much more difficult than swimming in an enclosed pool.

For those beginning exercise in the water, I would recommend a cheap pair of flippers. The aid from the flippers will help propel you through the water easier and also lengthen the time most beginners spend the in the water before becoming too tired.

Including swimming in your workout routine breaks up the often mundane activity. How do you keep your workouts exciting? Do you often incorporate different activities into your daily workouts?