Swimming is second best!

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), swimming is the second most popular sports activity in the U.S. Swimming and water aerobics are also low-impact sports, making them very low risk for injury. The CDC goes on to list many other benefits of swimming and water-based exercises:
 For people with arthritis, it improves use of affected joints without worsening symptoms.
 People with rheumatoid arthritis have more health improvements after participating in hydrotherapy than with other activities.
 Water-based exercise improves the use of affected joints and decreases pain from osteoarthritis.
 For people with fibromyalgia, it can decrease anxiety and exercise therapy in warm water can decrease depression and improve mood.
Getting into the pool and trying to swim might seem intimidating for those who have never learned proper technique, or who do not swim much. The good news is, swimming classes for adults are now more popular than ever (thanks in part to Michael Phelps). In addition, there is a wealth of information on the web regarding swimming techniques. In particular, I have found the instructional videos on YouTube helpful, as well as the articles and tips on the USA Swimming website.
If swimming laps in a pool does not pique your interest, consider water aerobics. For those who love aerobics or dancing, but have joints that don’t, water exercise classes are an excellent alternative. Water aerobics now seem to be offered at gyms everywhere, and range from low to high intensity, and are offered in shallow or deep water. Flotation devices are used in the deep water programs, so one does not need to be an expert swimmer to participate in these. Zumba has started an Aqua Zumba series, for those looking for a fun, low-impact, high intensity form of exercise. There are even ability and age appropriate water exercise classes approved by the Arthritis Foundation and Silver Sneakers, the national fitness program designed for senior citizens.
There is something for everyone when it comes to exercising in a pool. Hopefully, the thought of going to a pool will motivate you to remain healthy during the winter. It is important for us to stay healthy and fit so we can serve our clients to the best of our abilities. Spending time in the water energizes our bodies and minds, even in the midst of winter. So if you start to feels some of those “seasonal” blues, grab your suit, towel and a change of clothes and dive in! A swim spa in the backyard might be just what the doctor ordered!