Staying healthy and active can become more difficult as muscle and joint pain set in and range of motion becomes limited with age. Alternative exercises such as swimming are much safer and easier on the body. Swimming is an ideal workout for older adults, mainly because it presents little risk of injury and is low impact. Here are 3 health benefits of swimming for older adults:
Tones muscles while staying gentle on the joints. Every movement in the water engages multiple muscle groups at the same time. Aquatic exercises are a great form of resistance training that help tone muscles without the stress on joints typical full body workouts can present. Because swimming is not weight-bearing, it’s easy on the joints for those who suffer from joint pain or discomfort.
Increases flexibility. While stretching before and after exercising is a sure way to increase flexibility, the act of swimming itself can also help increase flexibility in your hips, legs, arms, and neck. Swimming lengthens the muscles in a way that can make your joints more flexible and help muscle recovery.
Improves mental health. Swimming is a great way to reduce stress levels and boost your mood. Swimming can be a relaxing, individual activity but it can also be a fun, active, and social activity. Water Volleyball is a favorite exercise of Maple Knoll residents that allows them to have fun and socialize while also working out.
Our extensive warm water aquatics program at the Maple Knoll Village Hemsworth Wellness Center is perfect setting for aquatic exercises.
Our dedicated staff provide personally guided warm water exercises that give residents the option of swimming or walking laps, floating or exercising on their own, or even participating in a guided class. The various classes within the program help residents improve range of motion, muscular strengthening, cardiovascular conditioning and endurance.
For more information on our state-of-the-art Wellness Center and pool, please call 513-782-2717.
