Instead of just using the pool or ocean to relax this summer, why not use it to get some physical activity?  When the temperatures soar, water is the perfect place to be for your workout. Whether you are swimming, body surfing, water walking, or doing water aerobics, you are more buoyant in the water which is easier on your body.

Aquatic exercise is a low-impact activity that takes the pressure off your bones, joints, and muscles. Water also offers natural resistance, which can help strengthen your muscles. And water aerobics is a great way to improve the health of your arteries. It can lower your blood pressure and your “bad” LDL cholesterol while raising your “good” HDL cholesterol. If you have diabetes, water aerobics can help you shed extra pounds while you stay cool in the pool. Since swimming or water exercise is an aerobic exercise it also can expand the heart and lungs, making them stronger over time.

Whether it’s a few times a week or a few times a month, your body and mind will appreciate the different muscles it takes to swim or do water exercises as you enjoy the scenery an of outdoor pool or beach.  So add a little water to your workout today! Here are a few reasons why you should consider mixing swimming into your workout routine.

 

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    FtLaudGirl/Getty Stock/ThinkStock
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    It's A Great Form Of Cardio

    Swimming forces you to hold your breath for extended periods of time and because of that works like an aerobic exercise. It expands the lungs and heart over time and could lead to the overall strengthening of the heart.

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    Fuse/Getty Stock/ThinkStock
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    2

    Our Bodies Love The Water

    Not only do our minds already love the water but our bodies do as well. From the way it cools our bodies down after a long day in the sun to the countless studies done that have shown spending time in the water can actually work to slow down the aging process. 

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    CandyBox Images/Getty Stock/ThinkStock
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    An Easier Recovery

    Water is more gentle on our bodies than nearly anything in the world, and because of that feels amazing even after a long workout. Many of us like to hit the treadmill after a strength workout but the same and more could be accomplished doing water exercise. 

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