Great Swim - Benefits of Outdoor Swimming
GMTV’s Dr Hilary Jones, who has taken part in the Great North Swim for the last two years, is a firm advocate of the benefits of swimming and says:
”Swimming is an excellent form of exercise and all round therapy for body and soul.
”It exercises all the major muscle groups including the shoulders, neck, back, arms, legs and abdomen. Just look at the physiques of our Olympic swimmers – you know it has to be good for you! More importantly, the heart and lungs get a workout too – and it is a great way to burn calories.
”Swimming is a wonderfully social activity. Great for all ages, anyone able-bodied or otherwise can enjoy it and just learning to swim could one day even save your life.“
The physical benefits include:
- Little or no impact on joints;
- Improved flexibility;
- Increased strength gains;
- Creates muscular balance;
- Builds up endurance, heart and lung function;
- Balanced muscle toning and definition;
- Increases circulation, liver and kidney function;
- Rehabilitates muscles & promotes recovery;
- Supports many population groups enabling them to take part in exercise and physical activity.
The psychological benefits include:
- A more healthy lifestyle;
- A more positive attitude;
- A heightened feeling of well-being;
- The release of stress and tension;
- Renewed levels of energy.
In addition, swimming offers numerous other potential improvements, including social benefits, which can include:
- Having more fun and enjoyment;
- New and enhanced friendships;
- Enjoying the sense of working hard to improve your fitness and your lifestyle.