Benefits of Swimming

Benefits of Swimming By Brandt Quick

A very good friend of mine who also happens to be a coach, Chris Perez, we're discussing about the many health benefits of swimming. We went into a little bit of detail about the feeling that it gives us. Chris stated, regarding the feeling of getting in the water, “I can’t describe it.”

I began to ponder how swimming benefits me, as well. This sensation is comparable to what is referred to as a “runner’s high.” Those that run continuously for 20 to 30 minutes know exactly what I am referring to. Hormonal endorphins are released in the brain and results in this feeling.

With this sensation, it almost as if you are getting “lost” (in a mentally productive way) I refer to this as a moving meditation. Your mind is actually calmed and by the movement and attendant sounds, during swimming. The sound and buoyancy of the water passing over your body along with the release of endorphins in the brain accentuates this state of euphoria.

Water has many therapeutic benefits. The loads and stress on the joints of the body are at ease while in water, gravity is countered. This therapy is very beneficial for athletes who engage in training sessions that are done with great intensity. Regardless whether the athlete is of a mature age or younger, swimming can absorb the stresses on the joints that running and biking cannot. The benefits of swimming produces longevity and can be done throughout the course of one’s life. Irrespective of age, most of us can get into water and enjoy this therapy.

You don’t have to know the proper mechanics of stroking techniques, to enjoy this benefit. Before I became a serious swimmer I still felt that way then as I do now. Quite frankly, I crave being in the water both mentally and physically. It could be referred to as an addiction as my mind and body covets to get in the water after hard training sessions knowing that the results will be rebuilding and renewing. Every time I exit the water, there is a sense of refreshment and incomparable relaxation. It is a great feeling, and in other words, it is the “swimmer’s high.”

Swimming should be incorporated into training and workout routines. You will experience the swimmer’s high plus some added benefits. If you are a triathlete, this is going to help you as a runner and a biker, and also other sports that you could engage in. The holding of one’s breath results in “hypoxia” which simply means a lack of oxygen, which transpires during swimming sessions. This is great for our bodies. Hypoxia helps to improve lung efficiency and cardiovascular function. Note, you do need to be instructed properly with your strokes to maximize your swimming experience. Your training sessions will be much more pleasurable. This knowledge will help to give you greater efficiency while being in the water and helping you to deepen your love for swimming.

As stated in the outset of this article, the health benefits of swimming are incredible to say the least. So go out there and get in the pool. Enjoy the results of this wonderful moving meditation and experience all the euphoric sensations found while and after swimming. Once you get in there and get going you will experience the same “swimmer’s high” that Chris and I do and enjoy it. As you are becoming addicted, you will enjoy the benefits of swimming and want to come back for more!

What are your thoughts on the benefits of swimming?

The benefits of swimming are tremendous! Fitness professional, entrepreneur and committed triathlete, Brandt Quick writes an excellent article on the subject and the "swimmer's high."

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Brandt Quick is CEO/President of BQuick Athletic Development, BQuick Nutrition and BQuick Tri-Dat. He can be reached at 1-855-TRY-BQUICK (879-2784), and website at www.bquickfitness.com, www.bquicknutrition.com or www.tri-dat.com

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