Swimming to Weight Loss Success

Posted: Feb 05 in Obesity and your Health, Weight Loss Blog by

When you think of great aerobic workouts, most people look directly to running and walking, but those are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to types of aerobic activities that will get your heart rate up, help you burn calories, and encourage weight loss. In fact, running isn’t even considered the most effective type of aerobic exercise! That title goes to cross-country skiing, but for most of the continental United States, skiing isn’t exactly a year round sport. Luckily, coming in right behind skiing is something a bit more practical for most people to keep up with: swimming.

When was the last time you actually went for a dip in the pool? For many of us, the idea of getting into a bathing suit and going in the pool with other people does not sound like a good time. But there are a lot of reasons as to why you may want to take the plunge after having weight loss surgery.

The Benefits of Swimming

Swimming is a great form of activity for several reasons:

  • First, it is a powerful cardiovascular activity that really does get your heart pumping.
  • It is also light on your joints, as you are working in water instead of forcing your feet onto pavement, which reduces the chance of injury.

The buoyancy of the water actually reduces your body weight to about 10 percent of what it actually is, which is what allows you to float. This means the pressure on your joints is minimal, making it an ideal form of exercise for those who have existing injuries.

You are lucky enough to live where the temperature stays warm and the ocean is nearby, making swimming easy to do year round. The Gulf Coast of Florida is a destination spot for those trying to escape the harsh winter weather and enjoy a bit of sunshine, and the amenities needed for an enjoyable swim are available in your own backyard. But if you aren’t excited about the idea of heading to your neighborhood pool or getting out in the sun, you aren’t out of luck. Check your local YMCA, high schools, universities, or park and recreation departments to find out if there is a pool nearby where you can dip your toes and squeeze in a quick workout.

Comments are closed.