Swimming Into Summer

Summer is around the corner and swimming is a great way to enjoy the outdoors without suffering in the Texas heat and humidity. In addition to being a great way to cool off, swimming is a great workout since you have to move your body against the resistance of the water. Swimming is convenient as there are numerous fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and pools in Austin in which to swim. Swimming also has numerous health benefits and is low-impact, unlike many other sports or forms of aerobic activity. Here are some of the benefits of swimming:

  • Increases heart rate in a low-impact environment
  • Builds full body muscle strength,
  • Builds cardiovascular fitness and endurance
  • Helps maintain healthy weight
  • Helps keep up a healthy cardiovascular system (heart and lungs)

Other benefits from swimming include:

  • Helps alleviate stress
  • Can improve coordination through various strokes
  • Provides a potentially pain free environment for injured individuals or those with arthritis or other health conditions
  • A fun way for children to get exercise

If you would like to swim for exercise or recreation but are unable to currently due to pain or injury, consider that physical therapy might help you to successfully get in the pool. Shoulder and hip injuries or back pain are common reasons that people think they cannot or should not swim. However, pool-based activity can actually be very beneficial for these issues and many others. Feel free to give Symmetry a call to schedule an evaluation of your water-sports readiness. We’re at 512-339-1500. Happy Swimming!