When the temperature rises, many people head for the pool. It is a cheap and fun way to beat the heat and bond with friends and family. In addition to fun, a pool also offers the opportunity for an excellent workout.

• Swimming is a cool activity - As your body temperature is lower and more maintained, heat exhaustion and stroke is less of a concern than with the majority of traditional exercise. Run in the pool if the temperature is too high for a regular run.

• Water reduces joint stress - Since water activities have very low impact, the chance for being hurt is very low. Those who are pregnant or have joint problems could greatly benefit from the relatively gentle nature of a pool workout.

• Swimming relaxes the mind - Research has shown that being in water eases tension and stress, which has great mental benefits.

How Swimming Affects the Body

A key component of swim exercise is the muscle that you will build. Every movement meets resistance in the water. While swimming, almost all muscles are required, so you do not need to vary your routine as much as with traditional exercise. Swimming builds great cardiovascular endurance. As it is a very aerobic workout, you are forced to control your breathing as your heart rate rises.

Swimming at Home

If you are not able to reach a public pool for some reason, you can still receive an excellent swim workout from home, even if you don’t necessarily have a large pool.

• You could purchase a swim machine. Elite swimmers use them for competition training, and it is similar to an exercise bike in that you swim without actually moving anywhere. These machines are not cheap, though.

• A more viable option is the use of a pool tether. By tethering yourself to something outside of the pool, you can swim without covering any distance. These can be easily found in pool stores or internet sites.

Swimming is an excellent workout that not only conditions the whole body but is fun to do. Your body stays cool and the majority of injuries are prevented. You do not need to completely abandon your current workout plan, as pool exercise can be easily implemented. It is not hard to find motivation to jump in a pool!