[crazyinlove]

I have heard swimming is a good form of exercise, can anyone tell me how it helps? What body parts its works on and what I can look out for change wise to my appearance as I have started to swim 3 times a week and do 30 lengths of a relatively large swimming pool. Thanks guys!

[J_9]

Swimming is one of the best forms of exercise there is. It is cardio, which means it works on your heart, it strengthens all body muscles as you use all muscles to swim.

My daughter (13) swims 2 miles a day.

[CaptainRich]

I'm not an expert but have found swimming helps strengthen the body's core with very low impact on joints. It's also great for cario. I swim at my gym but now have a pool in my backyard. It's not as big, of course, but I may not need to pay gym membership any more.

[lovelesspa]

In my opinion swimming is the best exercise of all. It tones up both upper and lower body using almost all muscle groups. It works your whole body, it improves cardio, muscle strength, endurance and flexability. It is low stess on joints, improves blood pressure. It also improves your bodies use of oxygen. On a average a swimmer can burn as many calories as a runner who runs 6 miles in 1 hour. I can say enough about the pros of swimming!!

[CaptainRich]

P.S.: I'm drifting back into scuba, too. I live in Florida so lotsa snorkling opportunities. I like the low impact aspect. Move your gear slowly and take your time. Good excersize without the backbreak... Also, this is good exercise for your skin, too. Remember to use SPF 15+ with Aloe. Oh. Yea, I like some shade close by, as well.