To some people, swimming is purely a hobby, to some, it can serve as some sort of exercise or sport while to others it is simply a means of relaxation. Swimming has a wide range of benefits that it confers on people that engage in it. It is an activity that stimulates and exercises a majority of the muscles present in the body. However, swimming can also be dangerous if attempted by someone that does not know a lot about it. It is not a sport that can be engaged in by just anybody, it requires a lot of patience, hard work and discipline before it can be learnt and mastered. But once the skills are acquired, swimming has various advantages that are greatly beneficial to the swimmer and the society at large. Some of these are:
- It can save a life: With an important skill such as swimming, know that one day you might save someone’s life. A good swimmer can effectively help a drowning person, in fact, it is a major requirement when applying for the job of a lifeguard. As a good swimmer, you have the extra advantage of being able to save a drowning person’s life if you have the opportunity.
- It tones muscles: One thing that is very noticeable about swimmers is their fit and toned body because swimming employs the use of most of the muscles in the body. As a result of this, the muscles become very well exercised and toned. It particularly strengthens and tightens the muscles of the arms and legs.
- It burns fat: Swimming can be a rigorous and energy-sapping activity when practised routinely. It helps in burning excess fat in the body and assists in keeping the body fit and trim. Excess fat can be shed through swimming because it is a workout procedure on its own. Swimming can substitute for running and jogging because it also helps in maintaining a healthy weight and serves as a means of exercising the entire body system.
- It strengthens the heart: Routine swimming can strengthen the cardiovascular system and help the heart perform its function better. Research has shown that routine exercise makes the heart beat faster and this, in turn, increases the longevity of the entire cardiovascular system.
So, the next time you are taking a dip in the water, be rest assured that it is not just for the fun of it as swimming is actually very important as an exercise that makes use of most of the muscles in your body.
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