While swimming is often not as regular a part of your workout routine as, for example, weight lifting or Pilates, its benefits are vast. Practicing it regularly could help you improve your lung capacity, boost your mental health, and make you smarter. 

So, if this is an activity you like but often put off, you should definitely read this article and explore gyms with pools in San Diego to pick the best one and start reaping all the benefits swimming can offer. Read on to learn more about what they are.

How long to swim for health benefits?

It’s recommended to take 3 to 5 moderate weekly sessions of about 30 to 45 minutes to gain the benefits this amazing activity can bring:

Improved mental health

Once you’re in the pool, you leave the outside world right there – outside. You can’t look at your phone and your social media feeds, so it’s a perfect way to give your mind a break from digital stimulation. Many people say that just being in the water makes them feel less stressed and more relaxed. In addition, regular exercise releases endorphins, which are “feel good” hormones, helping reduce depression and anxiety.

Increased fitness

According to the NHS, adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week to stay healthy. However, if you choose an activity that’s particularly vigorous, like fast swimming, you can cut this time down to 75 minutes – just a little over an hour per week. Moreover, it activates almost all muscles in your body, particularly in your thighs, arms, and upper body. This is because swimming gives you a steady resistance pattern that taxes the muscles and tones them up.

Better quality of sleep

Aerobic exercise has been linked to improved sleep quality and sleep duration. According to a study, working up a sweat is your ticket to a good night’s sleep. The results have shown that pairing regular exercise with good sleep hygiene can help you improve not only your sleep quality but also your mood and overall quality of life. 

Different strokes for definition

While it works the entire body, different strokes will activate certain areas a bit more than others. Here’s how some major strokes work:

• Breaststroke. Although slower, this is the best option for a full-body workout. It strengthens your upper body and involves breathing out into the water, which increases the resistance on the chest, and improves lung functions. 
• Front crawl. This speedy stroke is usually the easiest to master and it focuses mainly on the upper body. It uses deltoids (the muscles in your shoulders), the triceps, the biceps, and the side of the back.
• Backstroke. Mastering this elegant technique can help you improve your posture, strengthen your core, and open up your chest muscles. It shapes your thighs, lower back, and upper back. 
• Butterfly. This one’s a true calorie burner as you need a lot of power and strong biceps and triceps muscles. It helps strengthen your shoulder muscles and core. 

What are the best gyms with pools in San Diego?

Whether you’d like to combine swimming and weight lifting, you’re looking for ways to stay active while recovering, or want to keep your fitness level high, Plunge San Diego is the place for you. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just beginning to explore this world, we’re here to provide you with all-encompassing support every step of your journey and offer a variety of programs, including group and private swim lessons. No matter whether you live in Mission Valley or across San Diego, stop by our facility and explore all the benefits of working with our diligent team. Call today!