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Want To Live Longer? The Free Exercise You Should Be Taking Up Now.

by Sportitude

When it comes to swimming you don't need to be a water baby or triathlete in the training to appreciate one of the many benefits that come with this cost effective exercise.

While many of us will take up running, hiking, cycling and countless other high-impact outdoor activities, swimming is often left on our to-do list. However with the benefits outweighing many other forms of exercise, it's time to ditch the 'fear of being seen in a bikini in public' and take a dive into the deep end. 

      1. Let’s talk stress. While exercise is scientifically proven to help elevate our mood and relieve stress, water, in particular, provides added calming benefits. Studies have linked water to having a powerful, calming effect on the brain, providing the same effect as meditation. 

      2. Let’s talk lungs: Studies into swimming and lung capacity suggest that swimming increases our ability to process oxygen more efficiently. In short, increase your visits to the local pool to decrease your shortness of breath when climbing those stairs. 

      3. Let’s talk limbs: Swimming is one of the most effective ways to implement cardio into your routine without placing impact and stress on the bones, joints and muscles. This is particularly beneficial for those recovering from injuries which prohibit them from running or hitting the gym. With the water supporting over 90% of our body weight, swimming is particularly beneficial for the elderly and those with arthritis issues. 

      4. Let’s talk multitasking: Swimming is one of the most effective ways to simultaneously increase strength and cardio. While it is an aerobic exercise, swimming also provides slight resistance. For those wishing to lose weight, it means toning while watching those numbers decrease. 

      5. Let’s talk funds: With a plethora of new gyms and routines emerging, staying on top of the latest exercise trends can prove costly. Hit your local beach, lake or pool for a cost effective exercise routine that will provide the benefits of a cardio, resistance, and meditation training all in one.