Swim Yourself Thin
May 22, 2013Why YOU Should Get in the Pool this Summer!
Bad knees, bad hips, bad ankles…oh my. As a Personal Fitness Trainer, I think I have heard about every injury in the book. Whether it is an old skiing injury from the early 80’s or a slight lower back pain that has developed over the last few months, injuries sure do like to show their ugly faces every now and then. It is up to us, however, to take charge and find a workout regimen that is well suited for us (with the help of a trainer, doctor or physical therapist, of course!)
Not only is swimming gentle on a person’s joints, it will get the heart pumping, get every muscle in the body working and keep you cool on a hot summer’s day! Water cushions stiff joints or fragile bones that might be injured by the impact of land exercises. When immersed to the waist, your body bears just 50% of its weight; immersed to the chest, it’s 25%-35%; and to the neck, 10%. For people with arthritis, it improves use of affected joints without worsening symptoms.
Are you new to swimming and not sure where to start? No problem! Hiring a professional trainer who specializes in aquatics is a step in the right direction. He or she will get into the pool with you to teach you the basics as well as water safety. For those of you looking to fine tune your technique and get a great water workout, joining a small group class is a great fit for you. You can meet new people who share the same interest as you and become part of a team!
With Memorial Day right around the corner, all of the rooftop pools in the city of Chicago will open up. Take advantage of the beautiful weather and more importantly, take care of you. Grab a towel and some goggles and make swimming a part of your healthy lifestyle!
