25 Great Reasons to Start Swimming Now
11. Beats the Heat
It's no great revelation that swimming is cool and refreshing: when the temperatures climb, sometimes the only relief can be found in that big body of water. Too bad there are so many other bodies taking up space in the water! One of my favorite things to do in summer (or winter, if you live in Australia) is to go swimming at night, under the stars. The crowds have cleared, there's no need to use UV sunblock, and it's sometimes just you, whoever you're with, the night sky, and the pool. Magical!12. Self-Esteem
It's true with any exercise or sport -- they build confidence and raise self-esteem. OK -- so you may not get a team t-shirt or a trophy, but regular swimming also does these things, and increases your self-reliance. You feel more powerful -- ready to face the world.
13. For a Lifetime
Swimming is one of the few sports you can do throughout your lifetime. Unlike something like soccer, baseball or skiing, you won't need to "retire" from swimming. It will always be there for you.14. Taller, Longer, Leaner
Does swimming make you taller? Just look at Michael Phelps. While it isn't going to add height where the genetics and potential aren't there, swimming has the ability to build longer, leaner muscles. It's those "swimmer's muscles" combined with resistance training and cardio that help boost your metabolism to keep those calories burning longer. Swimming can also put your body through a range of movements, helping your muscles stay nice and long and flexible.15. Joints
Let's say you are recovering from an injury and are hoping to build or rebuild strength. Swimming will fulfill that need and desire. It's easy on the joints and gives sore knees a rest from constant pounding on the pavement -- something you may not be able to do for a while.
16. Weight Loss
For some, just the idea or act of wearing a swimsuit in public (even in a backyard pool) can be the motivating force to shed a few pounds. People who consistently swim strenuously enough to be out of breath when they finish and elevate their heart rate do burn calories and lose weight," says Jane Moore, M.D., a physician and active swimmer from Tacoma, Washington. "The key is to push yourself a bit.""Putting on a swimsuit and appearing in public should also motivate one to shed a few pounds," says Kris Houchens, head coach of the YMCA Indianapolis SwimFit Masters.Whatever your reason, or whatever the excuse of a friend or partner, that swimming has not been incorporated into a consistent fitness routine, the list above should illuminate the ways in which the sport can add to your quality of life.17. Socialization
If you own a pool, then you know what a magnet it can be in the summer time. Everyone wants to hang out at the kid-with-the-pool's house. While it may mean extra water-watching time for Mom or Dad, there's no denying that it brings children and adults together. Pools are all about socialization -- they are a culture unto themselves. Starting in the18. Team and Individual Sport
If you have that competitive spirit and are -- or strive to be -- athletic, then swimming is definitely an exhilarating individual and team sport. Just think about the Olympics, and what you or most people enjoyed watching the most. For me, at least, it as the swimming competitions, especially with those inside-the-pool cameras, catching every breathtaking part of the competition.Starting from childhood, participating on a swim team can build up strength, confidence and the ability to get along with others -- which will help later in life.