Some questions about swimming's contribution to fitness
Former Member
Hi,
I am a new member here. Due to a serious knee injury (4 time dislocation), I am interested in taking up swimming. It is especially appealing as it is a low impact sport and involves all parts of the body.
How good is swimming for the heart? I know it forces my heart to work, but is it good to keep it in shape?
Is swimming good for strengthening a knee?
Lastly, swimming is the only sport/exercise I do. As a result, I assume I would have to do quite a lot of swimming to make up for the lack of other exercise. How many hours a week would I have to put in (assuming I swim constant lengths with some rest in between - or as far as I can, but not just standing in the pool).
Sorry for all the questions on my first post
Thanks
The general answer to your question is "yes" - swimming will contribute to your overall fitness level. It will increase your endurance, strength, and keep to toned. There is a lot of "back and forth" on if swimming helps with weight loss, but in general it is a great way to burn calories and if you watch your diet can contribute to weight loss as well.
As far a the knee, swimming is generally easy on the bones and joints in the body. New evidence has come to light that swimming also helps strengthen bones - once thought only to happen through "impact" exercises like running, etc. That being said, certain styles of swimming (breaststroke kick in particular) can actually be hard on the knees and you also have to be award of potential shoulder problems from overuse or improper stroke.
The general answer to your question is "yes" - swimming will contribute to your overall fitness level. It will increase your endurance, strength, and keep to toned. There is a lot of "back and forth" on if swimming helps with weight loss, but in general it is a great way to burn calories and if you watch your diet can contribute to weight loss as well.
As far a the knee, swimming is generally easy on the bones and joints in the body. New evidence has come to light that swimming also helps strengthen bones - once thought only to happen through "impact" exercises like running, etc. That being said, certain styles of swimming (breaststroke kick in particular) can actually be hard on the knees and you also have to be award of potential shoulder problems from overuse or improper stroke.
