Get The Greatest Health Benefits From Swimming
By All American Fitness
Swimming is a versatile form of exercise that can be done at nearly any age. You can exercise the entire body, get your heart rate up, and improve your strength and flexibility. If you want to reap all the benefits, you need to employ certain strategies.
DON’T FORGET NUTRITION
As with any exercise, you need to properly fuel before swimming. This will give you energy while swimming. Before a swim, focus on carbohydrates. If you have little time before your swim, then a small snack will suffice. Consider having some fruit or a bagel. After your swim, you need to recover. Protein should be your priority as it will help replenish your nutrients. Some options include eggs and yogurt. You should also have some fruit and vegetables after your swim as a part of rehydrating.
REFINE YOUR TECHNIQUE
If you want to reap the full benefits of swimming, you need to do it properly. Refining your technique helps you swim more efficiently and helps reduce strain on your body. For example, by pointing your head down while swimming instead of keeping it raised, you can significantly reduce strain on your neck. Strengthening your swimming technique keeps you safer and can help protect other swimmers as well. With proper technique, you can understand how to avoid accidents and you can teach others these techniques.
TAKE CARE OF YOUR SKIN AND HAIR
Pools can be great for exercise, but they can do a number on your skin and hair. The chlorine and other chemicals can dry out your skin and hair and it can even lead to discoloration in your hair. Swimming is very beneficial for your health, but you don’t want the effects on your skin and hair to counteract all the other benefits. There are several ways you can take care of your skin and hair. The main thing you want to do is stay moisturized and hydrated. Drink plenty of water before and during swimming. This helps to keep your cells hydrated from the inside. You can also take a shower before swimming to keep your cells hydrated. Afterward, thoroughly moisturize and use products, like chlorine-neutralizing soap, to help prevent damage.
Swimming can indeed provide you with plenty of health benefits. However, if you want to see those benefits then you need to take steps to properly prepare yourself. Knowing what you’re doing can make all the difference.