It seems that there are completely different opinions among the so-called experts when it comes to swimming for weight loss.
Does anyone know of someone who swims regularly and has not lost weight? I don't mean a leisurely couple of laps, but a regular workout.
Are there any obese swimmers who work out regularly and are competitive?
I'm thinking that the fitness experts don't like swimming because they are either:
a. Not good swimmers
b. Can't swim enough distance to get a good work out in; or
c. Had a bad experience with swimming.
Any input on this topic is appreciated (beyond the diet and exercise speech).
Parents
Former Member
When I posted this thread, I had just started back swimming. I was out of shape and I wanted to lose weight, but I didn't want to invest time and energy into something that wasn't going to work.
I have been swimming 3-5 times a week since mid Oct. 2005, my diet has always been relatively healthy, but portion control was an issue so I tried to watch that - eating only enough to satisfy my hunger, etc. and no wine during the week.
I have not lost one single pound. I weigh exactly the same as I did when I started. BUT, the cool thing is I am losing inches like mad. I've lost 3 1/2 inches around my waist, bust and hips. I've lost 1 inch around my thighs and arms.
Everyone tells me I am looking really good. I am wearing clothes that I couldn't even zip or button in October.
My point is not to brag, but to provide encouragement for everyone else that is trying to lose weight. Keep track of your measurements! It is absolutely true what they say - muscle weighs more than fat and muscle takes up less room in your body than fat does.
I had read that it takes 12-20 weeks after starting a swimming program before weight loss occurs. I'm just over the 12 week mark and I am more motivated then ever to keep going.
If you are reading this for encouragement ---- Don't give up!
When I posted this thread, I had just started back swimming. I was out of shape and I wanted to lose weight, but I didn't want to invest time and energy into something that wasn't going to work.
I have been swimming 3-5 times a week since mid Oct. 2005, my diet has always been relatively healthy, but portion control was an issue so I tried to watch that - eating only enough to satisfy my hunger, etc. and no wine during the week.
I have not lost one single pound. I weigh exactly the same as I did when I started. BUT, the cool thing is I am losing inches like mad. I've lost 3 1/2 inches around my waist, bust and hips. I've lost 1 inch around my thighs and arms.
Everyone tells me I am looking really good. I am wearing clothes that I couldn't even zip or button in October.
My point is not to brag, but to provide encouragement for everyone else that is trying to lose weight. Keep track of your measurements! It is absolutely true what they say - muscle weighs more than fat and muscle takes up less room in your body than fat does.
I had read that it takes 12-20 weeks after starting a swimming program before weight loss occurs. I'm just over the 12 week mark and I am more motivated then ever to keep going.
If you are reading this for encouragement ---- Don't give up!
