Swimming Pools and How They Can Help Your Health

By April 20, 2019 June 27th, 2019 Health
swimming pool, pool troopers

For most people, a swimming pool relates to fun, relaxation, and summer. You probably remember the time when you had those cool dips that made you feel refreshed when the hot summer days seemed unbearable. Pool Troopers understands a pool is one of the ultimate additions to your property. Having your own oasis right in your backyard gives plenty of incentives.

Even better, owning a pool is not just about increasing property value or convenience. It also provides several, health and lifestyle, improvements that you will benefit from, especially as you grow older. Pool Troopers gives you the top reasons why a pool can boost your health:

1. Swimming in the pool is a form of low-impact exercise.

Running and jogging can be strenuous to the body. If you want to become healthier, you can turn to your swimming pool and start swimming. Compared to the two exercises, swimming puts less strain on the body. Water makes you lighter – up to 90% of your original weight. Therefore, it does not feel heavy on the joints and muscles, making swimming a great exercise for people with arthritis, overweight, or those just starting a workout regime.

2. Enjoy aqua therapy.

Your swimming pool is perfect for aqua therapy, which involves the use of water weights and body wraps. This exercise is a great alternative for those who have bone conditions.

3. Swimming helps improve heart health.

If you are among those who do not like running for cardio, swimming is an option. As a low-impact exercise, it allows you to perform more exercises without the risk of injuries.

4. It is a workout for the whole body.

Using your swimming pool lets you work your body from head to toe. It tones your neck and arm muscles, as well as your legs. It keeps your blood pumping without you feeling tired and stressed. It also builds your stamina and strength. Different strokes focus on a specific muscle group. 

As you swim, the water resists your movement, adding to the challenge but it is not overwhelming.

5. It is recommended for people with health conditions.

Most people who have problems with their health may think they can no longer exercise. However, swimming is an exception. If you suffer from any injury, osteoarthritis, or even a disability, high-impact exercises are not allowed.

Swimming, on the other hand, is for almost everyone, including those who are in pain. It can drastically improve your recovery rate if you are injured. A study even showed that those with osteoarthritis felt much better with the help of swimming. The participants in the research felt less stiffness and pain in their joints.

6. It is a wonderful exercise for those with asthma.

Breathing techniques are a part of swimming. You do not have to be in a competitive race to learn how to breathe properly as you start the activity. Holding your breath is a simple way to expand the capacity of your lungs. At the same time, it helps you with controlling your normal breathing patterns.

There are studies, however, that mentioned how swimming may increase asthma risk because of chemical treatments and indoor air quality. It is why you should make sure your pool is chemically balanced, and if using an indoor facility make sure the air turnover is up to code and keeps the indoor pool area air fresh and healthy. Don’t swim in any facility where the air or water quality is poor.  Pool Troopers offers chemical service, so water is safe and free of irritants.

7. Swimming pools can also be helpful for those with multiple sclerosis.

Those who suffer from MS may find this activity beneficial for them. Since water keeps the body buoyant, it is easier to float while getting enough support for the limbs.

8. Swimming in your pool is a way to keep you slim.

You do not have to limit yourself to the treadmill. Swimming can help you burn lots of calories. An hour of swimming will help you lose more than 400 calories if you weigh 160 lbs. You do not have to swim hard and fast to achieve this number. However, if you want to burn more calories, swim at a more vigorous pace. It will lead you to torch at least 700 calories.

To see the difference, compare the numbers to other exercises. The same person will burn about 300+ calories while walking for an hour at a rate of 3.5 miles per hour. 

9. Swimming regularly in your pool will help you sleep better at night.

Many adults tend to have a problem with sleeping. If you have insomnia, you can turn to swim to give you a longer and more peaceful sleep. Science has shown the positive effect of regularly swimming, as well as other aerobic exercises, on sleep

10. Pool time is a mood booster.

Several scientific studies have shown in the past that all types of exercise can benefit the mental wellbeing of a person. Swimming is one of these activities, along with other aquatic workouts that you can do in your pool. It is a rewarding experience, too. For some people, it is enough to boost their mood.

Also, since you swim with your friends and family, it can make you happy for a long while. Spending time socializing and making new connections during a pool party can also give you lasting cheerfulness.

At the same time, you probably already know that swimming and other exercises can help beat stress. In fact, science has proven it many times. One example is when a group of swimmers was surveyed in Taiwan. Over 100 people participated, and they were asked to answer a few questions before and after swimming. More than 44% of the swimmers felt stress because of their fast-paced life. After a swimming session, however, only eight people had the same feeling.

Some experts may not be convinced, and this area needs more research. Still, swimming regularly can be one of the most powerful ways to easily combat stress.

Other Benefits of Owning a Swimming Pool

Some people may not be able to run and perform other exercises. They may have a health condition that limits their movement, such as arthritis, joint issues, or heart problems. If you or your loved one is among them, swimming is an exercise that you can do. 

Of course, you will need to talk to your doctor first before you try to wade in the pool and spend several minutes there. However, most people do not have any issues with swimming, even those with multiple sclerosis as mentioned above.

Additionally, you do not have to be an expert swimmer to enjoy your pool and gain benefits for your health from it. The activity is for everyone from children to grown-ups. Make sure you actively watch children when they swim in the pool, and when done swimming utilize at least two levels of pool protection to keep children out of the water.  

Special Note: If you ever “lose” a child in a home with a pool Run, don’t walk, to the pool first!  Seconds count in childhood drowning prevention.  

Using your pool also suits all fitness levels. You can be fit to very unfit and still swim without a lot of hassle. In some types of exercises, you may find them challenging whether you are new to it or you have lived an unhealthy lifestyle. Swimming lets you go at your own pace. You can learn it slowly and you are not required to be knowledgeable in any movement. Simple walking in water can give you benefits if performed at least 30 minutes daily.

The exercise is also a brilliant activity for those who are pregnant. As a soon-to-be mother, you need to get up and keep yourself healthy by being active. Unless your doctor advised you to stay in bed for health reasons, swimming is a good and recommended exercise for pregnant women, not the hot spa, however.  

Pregnancy can add weight and stress to the joints and muscles, causing pain. Backaches are also a common concern. However, movement is often restricted except if you have always been active right from the start. Swimming can support the added weight, which makes it easy for pregnant women to spend time in the water without feeling tired. It is indeed an excellent option to stay fit without harming the mother and the fetus.

Swimming is a great skill to have. You have a wonderful opportunity to take advantage of it because you have a pool in your backyard. You can hire a teacher who will help you swim if you are new to the activity. The benefits of swimming are not only for your mental and physical wellbeing. There are some cases where having this skill can save your life. As always, please contact Pool Troopers if you need additional help or have a question about your service.