Swimming is a sport that involves moving your body through water. Water is a moderately viscous fluid, which makes it easier to move through compared to air. Swimming in pools is relatively still whereas swimming in the ocean is turbulent. Scuba divers also practice swimming, but they are moving through water that is relatively still. In freestyle, swimmers kick and swim with their arms and use their legs to move forward.
As a form of aerobic exercise, swimming is great for people of all ages. It improves your cardiovascular system, which strengthens your heart and lungs. Swimming can also help you manage your blood pressure and sugar levels. It also increases muscle tone. Swimming is also inexpensive and a low-impact form of exercise.
The most common type of swimming involves using arm and leg motions to propel one’s body through the water. The motions are designed to overcome the natural resistance of water. Swimming also helps strengthen muscles and is primarily a cardiovascular exercise. It is also a great form of exercise for physically handicapped people. Swimming can also be a part of some sports, including water polo, diving, and synchronized swimming.
Relays are another type of swimming competition. In these events, groups of four swimmers complete a distance one after the other. The distances in each race are usually 200 or 400 meters. In a medley relay, swimmers complete 50m of each stroke and finish the event with the freestyle. The best relay team will win the race.
When the start signal sounds, swimmers must step into the water. Some types of swimming races begin from a forward-leaning position, while others start from a standing position. This allows swimmers to achieve the longest glide possible before the stroke starts. A swimming race usually consists of multiples of the length of a swimming pool, and touch before turning is critical for success.
Swimming has been practiced for hundreds of years. Its history dates back to the Roman Empire. The first recorded book on swimming was published in 1538 by Nicolas Wynman. The second book, De Arte Nantandi, was published in 1607. In addition to its history, swimming is a popular sport in many parts of the world. The Romans practiced swimming for fun, and even built bathhouses in their cities.
Swimming is considered safe for the majority of people, but certain risks can be present. If you have any medical conditions, it is important to consult a doctor before beginning any swimming routine. Your doctor can prescribe guidelines that are specific to your health and lifestyle. For instance, if you are prone to heart attacks or have a history of asthma, it may be best to swim in a supervised or designated area.