5 Top Swimming Exercises for Seniors

Swimming and other water-based activities are considered to be beneficial for people of all ages. This belief is not unfounded, and scientific studies have shown a strong correlation between the feeling of well-being and swimming. 

However, you might be wondering if you’d be able to swim when you turn a certain age. You may also be curious to find out how swimming affects the aging process. Would it be wise for seniors to exercise at a local gym with pool in San Diego? Fortunately, you can dispel your worries with some expert tips, so read on!

Can swimming slow down aging?

This is a common question among swimming enthusiasts. It goes without doubt that water-based exercise enhances cardiovascular health, increased stamina, breathing, and better sleep. There’s strong proof that using aquatic exercise to relieve stress can impact your general physical health. 

Nevertheless, can swimming really slow down the aging process?  To answer this question, we need to take a closer look at how we age.

Aging is characterized by gradual decline of various systems in the body. This includes changes in vision, hearing, and cognition as well as decreased muscle mass and bone density. The good news is that you can prevent or delay these age-related changes by leading a healthy lifestyle. If swimming remains a part of your weekly regimen, you’re more likely to feel strong, relaxed, and rejuvenated for a longer time.

How does age affect swimming?

Normally, getting older doesn’t mean that you have to give up swimming. In fact, water-based exercise is recommended for seniors because it’s a low-impact activity that puts minimal stress on your joints. Swimming is also an excellent way to maintain muscle mass and improve joint flexibility.

How does age affect swimming

That being said, age can still affect your swimming ability in some ways. You should consider the following challenges: 

  • you may find that it takes longer to recover from strenuous workouts. 
  • you may need more time to warm up before swimming. 
  • you might need to take more breaks than at a younger age.
  • you may feel a gradual decrease in strength and endurance 

Whatever changes you experience, you should listen to your body and adjust your workouts accordingly. 

What are the best water-based activities for seniors? 

Some of the best water-based activities for seniors are swimming, aquatic therapy, and water aerobics. If you want to stay fit and healthy, consider some of the following water aerobic activities: 

Leg lifts

Leg lifts are a great way to tone your legs and improve motion range. To do this exercise, start by standing in waist-deep water with your feet shoulder-width apart. Slowly lift one leg straight out in front of you and hold for two seconds. Lower your leg back into the water and repeat with the other leg. 

Flutter kicking

This is yet another excellent leg toning exercise.s. To do this exercise, start by lying on your stomach in waist-deep water. Kick your legs up and down in a quick, fluttering motion. 

Arm curls

This exercise will help tone your arms and enhance your range of motion. Start by standing in waist-deep water with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms at your sides. Curl both arms up towards your chest, then back down to the starting position. 

Standing water push-ups

This is a great upper body exercise. Start by standing in chest-deep water with your feet shoulder-width apart and your hands at your sides. Bend your elbows and lower your body down into the water. Push back up to the starting position. 

What are the best water-based activities for seniors

Aqua jogging

Aqua jogging is a great way to get your heart pumping without putting too much stress on your joints. Start by standing in chest-deep water with your feet shoulder-width apart. Raise your knees up to hip level and start jogging in place. 

Where can I find a high-end gym with pool in San Diego, CA? 

If you’ve decided to lead a healthy lifestyle, the Plunge San Diego is the perfect choice. We are conveniently located within Mission Beach, where you can easily find us. We have extensive experience accommodating swimming and fitness enthusiasts in achieving their goals. Our experienced staff can help you pick the best workout regimen. Whether you’re looking for the best way to combine running and swimming, to tone your body, lose weight, or throw a poolside party, you’ll find everything you need at our premises.

Call us today and check out our membership options and swimming courses!

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