Each stroke we take brings us countless health benefits, both physical and psychological. And it is that when swimming you not only take care of your bones, lungs, or circulatory system. You also protect yourself against depression and anxiety. Let’s see the most notable benefits of swimming.
Burns a lot of calories
Although energy consumption depends on many factors. In general, swimming can burn between 500 and 600 calories per hour. It is one of the most suitable sports if you are looking to maintain a healthy weight.
Produces a low impact on the joints
Unlike activities like running or tennis, swimming is a sport in which the joints are not impacted. The main benefit of this fact is that the joints wear less and are better preserved.
Improves mood
When we swim, neurotrophic factors or neurotrophins are released in the brain, endorphins, which are believed to be helpful in controlling stress, anxiety, and mood. A study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) claims that swimming, like other exercises, reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Increase in concentration
Among the effects of swimming on the brain, the ability to focus, and mental clarity stand out. Research conducted in 2014 by experts from the University of Perth College of Sports Sciences in Australia found that diving into a steep pool increases blood flow to the brain, which promotes mental focus.
Gives more elasticity
The musculature is one of the great beneficiaries in the practice of swimming. And it is that, if we swim regularly little by little we will see how the flexibility and elasticity of the muscles increases. You can see how our range of motion is getting higher and higher.
Favors learning
Taking your kids to swimming lessons can be a good idea for a number of reasons, including how it can help them develop the ability to learn. Practicing swimming consistently activates both brain hemispheres and all four lobes of the brain, which can lead to increased cognition and easier learning.
May reduce back pain
Although swimming has always been identified as the ideal complement in the treatment of back pathologies, the truth is that it seems that it is not always the best option. We recommend that, if you suffer from a back problem, before diving into the pool, you consult a specialist. He will tell you if swimming is best for you and which style would be the most appropriate.
Take care of the circulatory system
If you suffer, for example, from tired legs or varicose veins, swimming is a good way to relieve heavy legs. When we swim, each organ of our body receives a light massage, which activates the blood and promotes its circulation.
Increase lung capacity
If this quality is already good on its own, it is even more so if you practice other sports such as running, as it will help you obtain a better performance in your races. By training in a liquid medium, the volume of our lungs is significantly improved.
Improve memory
The breathing exercises that are practiced when swimming help oxygenate the brain, which reverts in the improvement of this capacity of the brain. In addition, motor coordination favors the formation of new neural bonds in our brains.
Develop greater resistance
Thanks to swimming our body becomes more resistant. This is mainly due to two reasons: on the one hand, the increase in lung capacity and on the other, the strengthening of the bones. Endurance, along with speed, strength, and flexibility, is one of the four basic capabilities of the body. A good routine should include the four o’clock workout.
Helps control diabetes
People with diabetes have multiple risk factors for cardiovascular disease. So it is essential that they lead a healthy lifestyle, including increased physical activity. For best results, you should ideally swim at least 20 minutes in a row and do it 5 days a week.
It is beneficial for asthmatics
According to a study published in the Cuban Journal of Biomedical Research. 2017, the practice of swimming can be very beneficial for people with asthma to have a better quality of life. The authors of the work conclude that another benefit of swimming is that it increases the self-esteem of those who suffer from it.
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