Swimming has many benefits to your health and well-being. It can improve your cardiovascular system and help to build up muscle groups with low risk of injuries. It can also help you to lose weight and work out for longer without pain or strain as the body is supported in the water. Swimming can help your overall fitness and flexibility and can improve your performance in various other areas of exercise, notably running and cycling.
Swimming also helps with your mental health, producing endorphins, the happy and feel-good hormones, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that it can boost your brain health. This is because swimming and being in the water allows your blood flow to increase to the brain. Studies have also suggested that immersing yourself in natural or sea water out in the open air is particularly good for positive mental wellbeing.
I could not agree more with these studies, there is something quite magical about being in the ocean and feeling one’s self suspended in the water. Some of my favourite places to swim are Hayling Island and the Petersfield Open Air Pool. There’s nothing better than improving your mental health taking in the fresh air and keeping fit and healthy. What more could you want? Feeling good about yourself whilst training and increasing your stamina.
Written by Summer Black
