Health Benefits of Swimming

Swimming is a great way to improve your mental and physical health. It increases muscle strength and flexibility and allows you to work out vigorously with little chance of injury to your joints.  Swimming also trains the body to use oxygen more efficiently. Focusing on breathing and body movements adds a meditative aspect to swimming which can reduce stress.[i]

Think swimming is a summer thing? Think again.  The Penn State Natatorium is available year round to Penn State students.  Indoor pool admission is included with a PSU fitness pass; single day admission for students who do not have a pass is $3.  Be sure to check the calendar for public swim times.

It’s never too late to start swimming.  Penn State Aquatics offer adult courses for beginners as well as advanced swimmers.  Aquacise is a great option for those who aren’t into swimming but still want to benefit from water-based exercise.[ii]

[i] http://www.health.harvard.edu/family-health-guide/take-the-plunge-for-your-heart

[ii] http://studentaffairs.psu.edu/campusrec/rec/nat/

 

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