Swimming extends beyond being a mere survival skill, but it incorporates a full-body workout. Swimming offers water resistance to build muscle and it increases your aerobic potential. It’s a win-win-win type of workout. If you still think swimming is not for you, then consider how it is non-impact in nature. Meaning, it is terrific for those who suffer from all kinds of joint pains – whether it is your knees, back, or ankles. Swimming provides safe cardiovascular workouts with a low risk of irritating any injuries.
There is a common misconception that swimming is a one style workout – intense. That simply is not the case. Not every swimmer endures rigorous laps, in fact there is a wide range of swimming strokes that accommodate to different workout styles. Let’s delve into a list of the various strokes and styles, so that you may gauge which stroke is best for you.
1. Freestyle (front crawl) is great for those who enjoy faster paced swimming because it generates the most force. This stroke recruits the chest muscles, the lats, and the back muscles.
2. Breaststroke is one of the most popular swimming strokes and involves your lower and upper body moving in synchronization. The breaststroke is swam in a prone position, with both arms moving synchronously in short half-circular movements.
3. Backstroke is less intensive than the front crawl or breaststroke. If you’re doing a recovery swim between intense workouts at the gym, this should be your go-to stroke. This stroke will hammer out your back as your lats will pull your arms beneath the water and then back to the surface again.
4. Butterfly stroke will really kick your fat burner into high gear. This stroke is excellent for boosting your metabolism; targeting your chest, shoulders, and back; and helping to build better power and strength. This stroke requires the arms to move forward simultaneously, then into the water and back. Your core will scream as it keeps your body stabilized moving through the water.
If you would like to improve your technique, and maximize your workout results, Waterworks Aquatics has highly trained instructors that specialize in technique. Waterworks teaches age 3 months to adult, and all of the lessons take place in their indoor heated pools!
You can find them at 2290 E Foothill Blvd, Pasadena. Give them a call at (626) 836-1200 to set up your schedule today. Their outstanding customer experience experts will be more than happy to assist you. More information can be found about Waterworks Aquatics at www.waterworksswim.com/pasadena.
