Swimming for Fitness

Swimming for exercise.... have you ever tried it? There is always lap swimming, which is a great way to get in shape and beat the summer heat! Most pools set aside lanes for swimmers to do laps in during certain hours of the day. The pools are usually in the "down time" of the day, so you don't have to worry about children getting into your lane, or being self conscious about your bathing suit. It's just you, the pool, and the lifeguard, and trust me, the lifeguard is the last person you should be self conscious in front of. (Coming from a person who used to be one!) The pool is their job, and all they are concerned about is if you are still breathing.

Ok so you have a suit, the goggles, and you know about lap swimming. What's still keeping you away? Maybe lap swim isn't for you. After all, it is a very repetitive exercise. Some of you dear readers may even have a hard time swimming. Well I have the perfect water cure for you! A new workout system that is becoming more popular is called Aquasize. This is a class that is taught with an instructor, like yoga or Zumba, but in the water. There is shallow and deep water aquasize, depending on how fit you are and how well you swim. Shallow water aquasize is a lighter workout for those starting out. They have small weights you strap on your ankles, and many tools for new and exciting ways to work out! If that doesn't seem like a hard enough workout, you and upgrade to deep water aquasize. Call your local pool today and see what they have to offer!

For those with achy joints, arthritis, and stiff muscles, a "take away the aches" class might be right for you. This class is still gaining popularity, so not all pools will have it, but if you are having these kinds of problems and your pool offers it, it is worth it to try it. This class is one that I have taught personally, so I know the benefits! It is not much in the realms of a workout, but more of a body loosener. This will help ease pains that come with age and medical conditions. I highly recommend this class if it is available to you.

Of course every pool is going to be different, and will offer different services. Go ahead, give your pool a call, see what they have to offer. What have you got to lose?

~HealthyGirl