There is nothing like swimming to get in an excellent aerobic workout that leaves you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.Unlike some other forms of exercise that can leave you feeling worn out and jarred to the bone, swimming lifts you up and makes you feel like all your cares and worries pull away from your body.

First of all, swimming is an excellent cardiovascular activity improving heart and lung efficiency. Swimming is rhythmic and allows you to work out at an aerobic level or athletic conditioning level.It may take some practice to be able to swim for the 20-30 minutes you need for cardiovascular benefits, but you can and will work up to it and feel proud of your accomplishment. Whether you are working toward that 20 minutes of continuous, rhythmic swimming or you are swimming a mile or 2,000 meters, swimming is one of the best things you can do for your heart and lung function.

Secondly, swimming is probably the best overall body workout engaging all the major muscle groups and due to the resistance of the water, each muscle in a muscle pair can be worked in its full range of motion.

Next, swimming does not jar the body, the neck, back, and joints like jogging can. Swimming works the muscles, yet does not have the severe impact that other forms of exercise do.

Best of all, there is a quality about water that gives something back to you. Somewhat sensual, somewhat a oneness with the water. Whether swimming in a pool, lake, or ocean, water has life giving properties that can actually make you feel like a new person when you come out.

The next time you swim, give in to the water. Don't fight it. Let the water ease over you as you move through the water. Streamline your body and stretch out, reaching for water and skimming it back to slide through the water. Don't fight the water. Visualize yourself belonging in the water. Vary your strokes and let your breathing find a rhythm that enables you to feel that mind-body connection.

Swimming is a rejuvenating activity, whether you are slicing rhythmically through the water or are training for higher levels of athleticism. Yes, adding swimming to your lifestyle can be life changing. It is almost as though the life giving properties of water wash over you as you swim giving you a sense of well-being.

Partake of the health and mind benefits of swimming and see what a difference it makes for you.

Learn more about this author, E.M.Robinson.
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