By: Ana Margarita Olar| Vigorbuddy.com
Any physical activity has shown improve bone density because exercise facilitated calcium absorption of to the bones. One such activity is swimming.
Here are some facts on how swimming contributes to making your bones healthier.
ADOLESCENCE: SWIMMING AND BONE METABOLISM
Because swimming is a non-weight bearing sport, it has been considered as insignificant to maintain bone mass. A study has been conducted to know the effect of swimming on bones of adolescents aged 9-16 years old.
The subjects underwent combined measurement of bone mineral metabolism by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry of total body calcium content, and specific biochemical markers such as osteocalcin, calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase.
In this study, it has been found out that a highly active non-impact sport such as swimming may lead to increased bone mineral content for male swimmers. So in this study, it has been shown that swimming has a significant role in making our bones healthier.
PREVENT BONE FRACTURES.
Swimming has other benefits that lead to prevention of bone fractures and making our bones healthier. In addition to cardiovascular fitness that greatly improves health and endurance, swimming aids in building and strengthening of muscles, improve coordination, aids in flexibility and balance.
This is very helpful in preventing fractures because most fractures occurring in the old age are due to balance problems and weak muscles. So having stronger muscles and better balance may help prevent falls and fracture as you age.
Swimming is also great for the flexibility and strength of joints that’s why it is often recommended for persons who have arthritis and cannot perform high-impact activities such as walking, jogging, and jumping.
OTHER BENEFITS OF SWIMMING
Aside from its impact on making our bones healthier, swimming also benefits the whole body specifically:
>It keeps the heart rate up without too much impact of stress on your body
>Help maintain healthy heart and lungs
>Builds endurance, muscle strength , and cardiovascular fitness
>Tones muscles
>Alleviates stress
>Improves coordination, balance, and posture
>Improves flexibility and range of motion
>Can be a low impact physical therapy for some cases of injury or conditions
Because swimming is not a weight-bearing physical activity, you need to supplement it with other weight bearing and high impact exercise as permitted by your physical condition, in order to achieve healthier bones. You also need to pay attention to other areas of health including diet, healthy lifestyle, and your mental and emotional well-being for that holistic health.
