SSwimming is a great form of exercise, as it works your whole body. It’s an ideal way to get active and stay healthy, no matter your age or fitness ability. It’s also the perfect exercise to add into any current exercise regime. There are loads of benefits too, other than just getting fitter. Here’s why swimming should be an important part of your workout regime:
Step One
Regular swimming can reduce your risk of developing chronic illnesses, like strokes, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. It can also help you to feel happier, and help you to lose/maintain your weight. Let’s not forget that swimming is also a skill that can save lives. If you can’t currently swim, then it’s never too late to learn. People as old as 75 have learned to swim!
Step Two
There are even classes you can take part in, so you can become more confident in the water. If you’re worried about a health condition you have before you begin swimming, see a GP first to make sure you are safe to start.
Step Three
Once you’ve been given the OK, a beginner’s swimming lesson will focus on building your confidence in the water. All you need is a swimming costume that is comfortable and fits you well. However, if you’d rather cover up then you should be ok to wear what you like, such as leggings and a close fitting t-shirt. Goggles will also help you to see where you’re going under the water and stop your eyes from stinging.
Step Four
Small changes, such as one 30 minute session of moderate swimming per week will make a big difference to your health and help you to feel better about yourself. You can then add in more sessions if you like. Swimming can be your only form of exercise, or if you’d prefer, you can simply fit it into your current routine – sometimes it’s good to mix things up a bit and get different forms of exercise into your workout!
Step Five
Not only will you be fighting off potential chronic illnesses, you’ll look and feel much better. What better reason to start swimming? Here’s how to stay motivated: Make swimming a habit by setting aside a specific time to go each week. This can be at the weekend, or after work. Write it down in your diary so it’s a permanent part of your life.
Step Six
Take your kids swimming to teach them a valuable skill for life and bond as a family. Swimming with friends can be great fun too, especially if they’re the same ability level as you to begin with. You won’t want to let each other down so this will motivate you.
Step Seven
The swimming pool isn’t just for swimming; there are plenty of classes you can do in there too, such as aquafit!
Step Eight
1st-Direct are experts in above ground swimming pools so take a look and you might consider investing in your very own pool!
Step Nine
After a while, you may want to consider joining a club! This can help you to make new friends and motivate you to exercise regularly.