The benefits of swimming are numerous, from a strong core and lower back to an overall body workout. It’s also a great way to burn calories and improve cardiovascular endurance. And for many people, it’s the only form of exercise that works all the major muscles at once. While it might seem daunting to become a competent swimmer, don’t give up if you aren’t zipping down lanes like Katie Ledecky or Michael Phelps after one lesson. Learning to swim takes time and commitment. But with a little perseverance, you’ll be surprised at what your body can do.
If you’re a beginner, you should always be cautious when getting in the water. It’s important to get comfortable by spending time in the shallow end and adjusting to the resistance of the water on your body. You can also practice walking up and down the pool lane in water that doesn’t go higher than your chest.
Once you’re comfortable in the water, you can begin to build your stamina by gradually increasing how long and often you swim. It’s also a good idea to try different drills, so you don’t get bored. Adding variety will help keep your workouts interesting, so you’ll look forward to going to the pool.
It’s important to be aware of your surroundings, especially if you are swimming outdoors or at a public pool. Rip currents can pull swimmers away from the shore, and you should never swim in an area where there’s a risk of lightning. If you are at a public pool, make sure to check with the lifeguards to see if any areas of the pool have been closed due to dangerous conditions.
The first step to improving your strokes is to find a coach or group class that can teach you the basics of freestyle, breaststroke and butterfly. Then, work on perfecting your technique. As you improve, you can start to think about trying some competitions.
Swimming is a full-body workout that can burn up to 500 calories per hour. It can also strengthen a variety of muscles, including the triceps brachii, latissimus dorsi and quadriceps. However, it’s important to be careful and not overtrain your muscles.
If you’re new to swimming, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor before starting a swim routine. Swimming is a great cardiovascular workout, but it can also be challenging for some people with certain health issues. If you have a chronic condition, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, speak with your doctor to make sure it’s safe for you to swim. It’s also a good habit to brush your teeth before heading to the pool, and be sure to shower before you get into the water. This helps to prevent a dry mouth that could lead to cramping or other problems. If you’re having trouble breathing while exercising in the water, take a break. This will help your body recover, and you’ll be able to swim more comfortably.