10 incredible benefits of swimming for runners

Since we were children we have been told "Swimming with lifeguard class is the best sport" or "It is the most complete physical activity". Curiously, or at least in my childhood, those who affirmed that with absolute vehemence were not athletes, but my mother, who precisely did not know much about sports, although it is true that she swam, and nothing, which is glorious to see her.

1. Strengthens muscles

When swimming we use most of the muscle groups in our body: the buttocks and hips when hitting the water, the abdominals when twisting and turning against the wall, the shoulders and arms to do the propeller movement. Both the upper and lower body, as well as the trunk and head, are toned by coming into contact with the resistance of the water.

2. Improves elasticity

The practice of swimming increases the flexibility and elasticity of the muscles. Thanks to the movements of the joints necessary for the practice of swimming, it is possible to acquire greater mobility and flexibility of the extremities, favoring the increase in our range of movement.

3. Produces low impact on the joints

Swimming is a low-impact sport that does not damage the spine or joints. Floating through the water makes it easier on the joints than other contact sports. It is a soft discipline since the water cushions. This means that they wear out less and are better preserved. The density of the water means that when we swim, the spine does not have to support the entire weight of the body.

4. Promotes coordination and agility

Swimming improves motor coordination. When proper technique is followed, the improvement is impressive. You may not have a very refined style, in which case, it is always appropriate to take classes to get the most out of the pool. And the same, if you swim in open water.

5. Improves balance

It not only improves balance but also helps to achieve a faster and more efficient reaction time. When swimming, blood flow increases, and with this, as we will see later, memory is also greatly improved and learning is favored.

6. Prevents osteoporosis

Swimming is highly recommended for women who suffer from osteoporosis after menopause, since when swimming we make the muscles work more, which in turn helps us achieve greater bone density. 

7. Avoid and relieve back pain

Swimming is one of the best activities to strengthen and make your back more flexible , walk upright and not have cervical or lumbar pain. But not all styles are worth. If you suffer from back pain, swim on your back and avoid the breaststroke and the butterfly.

8. Helps lose weight

When we practice swimming with lifeguards class we can burn 500 to 1000 calories per hour. This energy consumption varies from one person to another, from one style to another, whether you swim in a pool or in open water or the temperature of the water. It is the perfect sport to maintain a slim and fit body.

9. A great cross-trainer for runners

Although sometimes you get lazy, especially in winter, swimming is one of the best sports for cross training. In the water, there is almost no weight and our bones and ligaments can rest while the muscles of the upper and lower body, such as arms, obliques, hip flexors and abdominals, are activated.

10. It allows us to train when we are injured

It is perfect for when you have an injury such as plantar fasciitis or tendonitis. It helps to raise the heart rate easily and to exercise all the muscles of the body, something very useful to strengthen the arms and improve the efficiency of the stroke when running. 

However, while swimming helps maintain fitness when you have an injury, it does not cure it. The best thing an injured runner can do to recover is to find the root of the problem of his injury and do specific strengthening exercises to correct it.

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