Swimming > for your fitness plan

Modern competitive swimming dates back to the 1896 Olympics when swimmers swam in a port in Athens, Greece.

Swimming can be a good compliment to an overall fitness plan. Because it’s an aerobic sport, swimming should be done for at least 20 to 30 minutes. For a more mentally stimulating workout, rest for 10 to 20 seconds every 25, 50 or 75 yards, a method known as interval training. A workout utilizing all four strokes, freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke and butterfly, trains all muscle groups. Swimming for an hour can burn up to 1,000 calories.

For the non-swimmer, there are other aerobic activities that can be done in the water. Grab a kickboard, a tombstone-shaped piece of floating foam, hold it with your arms stretched out in front and kick away. Not only does using a kickboard keep your head out of the water, but if done for at least 20 to 30 minutes the exercise works your legs and cardiovascular system. Interval training can also be done with a kickboard.

Aqua jogging is a great way for people who like to run to get in the water. Use a flotation device to stabilize yourself while you mimic the motion of running in water that is too deep to stand in.

If you don’t know how to swim, find someone to teach you. Also, keep your expectations within reach. Interval swimming is a good way to accomplish your goals without getting too tired.

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