Use Swimming As Exercise

People who use swimming as exercise are among the fittest people. Swimming is good exercise because a swimmer uses most of the major muscle groups in the body. Swimming as exercise is much gentler on a person's joints than running or aerobic workouts. It is never too late to start swimming for exercise. Follow the plan below to add swimming to your exercise routine.

1. Swimming as exercise requires the right equipment. Besides the pool, you will need goggles. Even if you never wear goggles for recreational swimming, if you intend to swim as exercise on a regular basis your eyes may dry out. Goggles are advisable. You may always consider fins and hand paddles to increase the effects of a swimming workout.
2. Start slow and build up. Start your new swimming routine slowly. Start by swimming hard for 30 seconds, then resting for 30 seconds. Repeat. You can build up your length of swimming, but in the beginning, make sure you are resting enough.
3. Remember the 10 percent rule. Never increase your swimming workout more that 10 percent at a time. If you swim 100 meters the first day, the next day you should swim no more than 110 meters. This will help prevent you from getting hurt.
4. Make sure your technique is sound. Good body mechanics will not only help you swim faster and further, they will help you to swim safer. Consider taking a swimming class or two to improve your form.
5. Start or join a swimming exercise group. A group of people who you regularly swim with will motivate you to swim and challenge you to progress. There are many swimming clubs you can find at your local recreation center.