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Unlike jogging, swimming is a non-impact sport. This means that over time, your knees and ankles wont have the same wear and tear that they would from running. Now we all want to stay in shape, to keep our cardiovascular system strong but also to keep our minds clear and focused. Coming from a soccer play and professional climber, I've had several knee surgeries, and during rehab (and now too!) swimming is what keeps the stabilizing muscles around my knee strong. It is a total body exercise that develops shoulder muscles, core strength (which protects your back!), the quadricepts, hamstrings and teachess breath control.

If you're new to swimming for fitnes (im not talking about at teh beach for 2 minutes or a dip in the pool!) the most important thing is your breath! If you were going for a jog, would you hold your breath? No! Same with swimming. Breath out, through your nose (not your mouth!). This extended exhale will keep you from getting tired.
Find a rhythm, maintain it. Every few laps, sprint the last half-length. Set a goal, dont be a afraid to break it though. Be easy on yourself. Stretch before and after, have fun. Do yoga (helps with breath!). Feel the change in your body and your mind! Salud! Livestrong

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