Why Swimming Is One of the Best Things You Can Do for Recovery (and Fitness!)

If you're coming back from an injury, you've probably heard "try swimming." There's good reason it's such a common tip.

GENTLE ON YOUR BODY

Water supports much of your body weight, so your joints, bones and muscles get a break from impact. That makes it a great option if you're recovering from a knee, hip, ankle or back problem, or if running and jumping aren't yet comfortable.

MOVE MORE FREELY

Water gives gentle, even resistance in every direction. You can build strength and mobility without the sudden loading you'd get from weights or hard ground. Warm water can also ease stiffness, making it easier to move through a fuller range.

KEEP YOUR FITNESS WHILE YOU HEAL

One of the hardest parts of an injury is feeling your fitness slip away. Swimming works your heart, lungs and almost every major muscle group at once, so you can keep your cardio ticking over while the injured area recovers. Many people return to their sport feeling less "out of shape" than they feared.

GOOD FOR YOUR MIND, TOO

Rhythmic breathing, the quiet and the feeling of weightlessness can be a real mood-lifter. Staying active when you're injured does wonders for motivation, and swimming is a lovely way to feel like yourself again.

TIPS FOR GETTING STARTED

• Start easy. Aim for short, relaxed sessions and build up gradually.

• Choose your stroke wisely. Some strokes suit certain injuries better than others. Breaststroke kick, for example, can aggravate some knee and hip problems, while backstroke is often comfortable for many people.

• Try water walking or aqua jogging. These are brilliant for lower-limb recovery, with far less impact.

• Use a pull buoy or kickboard to take pressure off a sore area.

• Listen to your body. A little effort is fine, but sharp or worsening pain means stop.

  
  

CHECK IN BEFORE YOU DIVE IN

Every injury is different, so it's worth getting advice before you start. A physiotherapist can tell you which strokes and movements are right for you and when to progress.

Swimming isn't a cure-all, but for many people it's a kind, effective way to heal, stay fit and feel good along the way. See you at the pool!

Don't let aches, pains and muscle strains get in the way of your goals.

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