It is not uncommon that our Stoke chiropractors are asked by a patient what would be the best kind of exercise for them to undertake. The answer will vary based on the patient’s circumstances, including their overall physical health situation and what they are looking to achieve.
However, many patients are dealing with conditions that limit the types of exercise that would be suitable for them. Swimming can often be a great way to exercise, especially for people suffering from joint pain, mobility issues or inflammation. In addition, swimming can be beneficial for people who are recovering from injuries, including sporting injuries, pregnant women and people who suffering stress.
In this post our Stoke chiropractor covers how swimming as a form of exercise can be so beneficial.
Please remember that prior to undertaking any new form of exercise you should seek advice from a medical professional, especially if you are currently suffering pain or injury or have a current medical condition.
Ten Benefits of Swimming
#1 A low impact form of exercise
Swimming is an excellent low impact form of exercise. Water provides buoyancy for the body which reduces stress placed on the joints. This is incredibly beneficial for those suffering from joint problems. In addition, there is a reduced risk of injuries compared to many other forms of exercising.
#2 Easy to vary intensity
You can change the intensity of your swimming session quite simply. The most obvious being by changing the speed you are swimming at. Other ways of changing the intensity are by changing the stroke you are swimming or the position of your body. You can determine the speed you are going at during your session. It is good practice to start slowly and build up the intensity during your session and gradually slow the pace down as you are approaching the end of your session.
#3 Good form of resistance training
Pushing your way through the water offers a natural form of resistance training. Resistance training helps to build strength, increases muscle mass, and helps maintain bone density.
#4 Muscle tone and strength improvement
Increasing muscle tone and strength can improve the overall health of the musculoskeletal system. Swimming can also help improve posture as it strengthens the muscles in the back, shoulders and core which are key to maintaining a posture.
#5 Improves joint flexibility
Swimming can be beneficial for joint health and flexibility as it is a form of exercise that works out the entire body and requires a full range of movement of the limbs. Some swimming strokes and techniques will offer more specific work outs for areas of the body. It is recommended that you speak with a medical professional, such as a chiropractor, who will be able to advise on strokes and techniques that are appropriate for you.
#6 Improves cardiovascular health
While swimming is a low impact form of exercise which can limit the stress on your joints, it doesn’t mean that it won’t get your heart rate up. In fact, swimming can an excellent exercise for improving cardiovascular health.
#7 Helps with weight loss
Carrying excessive weight can put immense pressure on the joints of the body. Areas particularly affected are knees, ankles, hips, or lower back. Swimming has been shown to encourage weight loss as it can be an effective calorie burning whole body exercise.
#8 Alleviates stress
Chronic stress can lead to a number of health issues including insomnia, diabetes, heart disease, anxiety, and depression. Undertaking regular physical exercise such as swimming have been shown to be effective in reducing levels of stress.
#9 Beneficial for pregnant women
Both obstetricians and chiropractors often recommend swimming as good form of exercise for pregnant women. There are two key reasons for this. Firstly, swimming can strengthen the abdominal muscles. These muscles are placed under additional pressure during pregnancy. Secondly, water provides buoyancy while swimming, which offers relief from the additional weight that a pregnant woman is carrying.
#10 Helps recovery from injury
If you have suffered an injury, especially if you are a keen sport person, swimming is a great for taking exercise as a form of rehabilitation. You can tailor the style and intensity of your swimming sessions to work around any current injuries you are dealing with.
Visiting Our Chiropractors at City Chiropractic in Stoke
If you are suffering pain or discomfort, out team of experienced chiropractors in Stoke are here to help you. To book an appointment, call us on 01782 848 184 or book an appointment online on our website here.
“From booking my appointment to receiving my treatment, the service has been impeccable. Amazing staff and brilliant communication. I wholeheartedly recommend paying City Chiropractic Clinic a call if you are in need of a Chiropractor. Very well done and thank you!” Sally H (5-Star Google Review)
“Having visited several clinics in Stoke. I have to say the best by far was City Chiropractic Clinic. A very warm welcome followed by a professional service by the doc. I went from sruggling to walk to being fully mobile in a few days. Price is fair too. I cannot thank you enough doc. I would highly recommend.” Rich H (5-Star Google Review)