If you need an aerobic activity that is easy on the joints swimming is your best choice. There is little argument in that fact but there is plenty of argument about other aspects of swimming.
There are those who say that swimming is not a good exercise for weight loss. Their theory is that swimming causes the body to hold on to extra fat in order to keep it's self warm in the water. They also say that the water supports your body so you do not get as much muscle development as with "land" aerobics. Muscle is active tissue so it raises your metabolism. If you are trying to lose weight you want your metabolism high. Others believe that the resistance water provides does allow muscle development to occur while swimming.
Most agree that swimming does increase your appetite. It is very important to be aware of that possibility and to avoid over eating after a swimming session. Being highly aware of your food portions is critical if you want to lose weight while using swimming as your aerobic choice.
Another factor that most agree on is that when you do "land" aerobics your core body temperature increases and needs to cool down after you exercise so you continue to burn calories after your "land" workouts in order to bring your temperature back to normal. The water keeps your temperature down while swimming so you do not burn the extra calories after your swimming session.
No matter what the augments are, swimming is a worthwhile activity. It does burn calories, tones your body and gets your heart in great shape while being easy on your joints. Just be calorie aware and you should reap the benefits swimming offers.
You do need to swim for at least twenty to thirty minutes at a good clip to get an aerobic effect. Just playing in the water is not going to get you fit.
If you do not have health issues that require no impact, a great idea is to combine swimming with "land" aerobics like walking, jogging, aerobic classes and such. Your body loves variety and needs some stress to get strong.
Finding a pool can be more difficult than going out your front door to take a walk. Researching your local community centers is an option. Some colleges and high schools also have swimming pools that may be available to the public during certain hours.
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