While various exercises provide many health benefits for people of all ages, swimming is especially beneficial for seniors. Unlike certain fitness regimens, swimming offers a low-impact workout thanks to the buoyancy of the water, which significantly reduces the risk of injury and strain on joints and muscles, making it an ideal choice for older adults aiming to enhance their overall well-being.
According to American Senior Communities, swimming engages all muscle groups and provides a comprehensive workout that not only strengthens muscles but also improves cardiovascular health. It effectively strengthens the heart, enhances lung function, and boosts endurance. In just 30 minutes of gentle swimming, seniors can burn up to 200 calories, making it a more efficient calorie-burning exercise than walking, running, or cycling. The resistance provided by water also facilitates muscle building and toning, benefiting overall strength and flexibility.
Swimming: Strengthens the heart • Enhances lung function • Boosts endurance
Beyond physical fitness, swimming offers therapeutic advantages for seniors dealing with mobility issues or arthritis. The supportive nature of water reduces pressure on joints, alleviating discomfort and improving range of motion. Even those who are not proficient swimmers can engage in beneficial water exercises such as walking in shallow water and using a kickboard for support or foam dumbbells for resistance training. These exercises not only improve strength but also promote circulation and flexibility.
30 minutes can: Burn up to 200 calories • Facilitate muscle building • Benefit strength and flexibility
Before starting on any exercise routine, swimmers should talk to a healthcare provider to ensure the desired fitness regimen is a safe one. With proper guidance, swimming can be a transformative exercise that supports physical fitness, mental health, and overall well-being for seniors.
DIVING INTO WATER FUN
Enjoy a fun water workout at various pools and recreation centers in Georgetown and Leander. To register for a Georgetown class, call or visit the Georgetown Recreation Center, and for the Leander class, visit leandertx.gov/375/Active-Adult-Program-55.
- Midday Motion: 12-1pm Mondays and Wednesdays through August (closed July 4) at the Georgetown Recreation Center, 1003 N Austin Ave, Georgetown
- H2O Cardio: 8-8:45am Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays through August (closed July 4), at the Georgetown Recreation Center, 1003 N Austin Ave, Georgetown
- Williams Drive: 7-7:45pm Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays through August at the Williams Drive Pool, 3201 Williams Dr, Georgetown
- Sun and Splash: 11-12pm Mondays and Wednesdays in July and August 7 at the Village Pool, 370 Village Commons Blvd, Georgetown
- Water Aerobics: 10-11am Mondays and Wednesdays through August 14 (no class on July 3), at the Robin Bledsoe Pool, 601 S Bagdad Rd, Leander