Our top reasons to start swimming during the winter

If there is one time of year that can be particularly hard on the body it’s winter. Not only are we inside a lot more but we tend to indulge frequently and the weather can make it especially tough to get out and get some exercise. This time of year can be challenging but it also represents a great opportunity to do things differently. Swimming is the ideal form of exercise to take up in winter – it’s supported but strong, will help to keep you healthy and upbeat even on the darkest days and could enable you to meet new training goals too. These are just some of the reasons to start swimming during the winter this year.

• The calorie burn. Although exercise is always more fun if you’re not counting the impact on calories there is no escaping the fact that swimming really does a great job when it comes to helping you to burn off the effect of winter puddings or Sunday roasts. Depending on your weight, an hour of moderate swimming can burn up to 600 calories. The best way to take advantage of this (and to enjoy the process) is to start with shorter, regular swimming sessions several times a week and build up from there.
• Strengthen your core and abs. Swimming is full body exercise but does have particular benefits if you’re looking to sculpt those abs. Breast stroke is especially good for waistline definition while front and back crawl will work your obliques and so could help to get rid of annoying muffin tops. Focus on contracting your abs while you’re swimming and you’ll not only go faster and get a better workout but you’ll strengthen your core and get that ab definition too.
• Wellbeing and mental health. There are so many positive benefits to swimming when it comes to mental health, from the healthy fatigue and sense of achievement you’ll get afterwards to the fact that being immersed in water triggers an endorphin release in the body. Over time you’ll start to feel yourself getting stronger and swimming can also be a great social sport if you do it with someone else.
• Building muscle and strength. Swimming works almost every muscle group and does so in a very balanced way. Unlike some other sports where you will end up with very defined legs or arms swimming ensures that this strength is built right across the body. Make sure you vary your strokes and sessions to get the full benefit.
• Improving skin quality. The impact of water passing over the body while you’re swimming can be like a massage and help to firm and improve skin tone. Cellulite is very normal – everyone has it – but you could find that regular swimming helps to smooth out cellulite. The strength and muscle tone that you develop as a result of swimming could give you the confidence boost you need to be proud of your body as it is.

If you’re looking for a new activity this winter swimming has a lot of benefits. Speak to our team today to find out about our swim spas…