Back in the Water: How Swimming Can Slow the Aging Process

As a healthspan optimization strategist, I guide others toward habits they can maintain. Consistent activity is a key to a longer, healthier life. Recently, one of my clients made such tremendous progress on her fitness journey that she inspired me to rejoin an activity I had long forgotten: swimming. In addition to our weekly resistance training, she takes a group class in a local pool, and others in her circle have noticed the change in her physique and overall health.

Balance and falling were a main concern when we started. The density of water provides support, which significantly reduces the risk of falling that exists with activities we do on land. This support makes water activities a much more accessible solution for those who are overweight, obese, or have joint issues, as the buoyancy of water reduces strain on the musculoskeletal system. Time in the water allowed her muscles to catch up and support her better when she was out and about.

Breaking Out of My Comfort Zone

For over a year, I'd been saying I would get back in the water. Calisthenics and running had become my automatic defaults, trapping me in a comfortable, but stagnant, routine. After numerous conversations with my client about her water workouts, I decided to end my drought. One morning, after a 5-mile run, I stopped by the pool and jumped in.

The Science of Swimming

Adults' lives often involve repetitive motions and long periods of sitting, which can lead to dysfunctional posture, tight hips, and poor core endurance. As other parts of the body compensate the result is eventual injury. Swimming is a great way to counteract these issues. Unlike land-based activities, moving through water forces you to carry your center of gravity differently and engage your muscles in new ways. This unique form of movement can help restore your body's natural balance and undo the unhealthy patterns we tend to develop over time.

Swimming is also one of the most effective full-body workouts. The density of the water provides resistance in every direction, working nearly every muscle in your body, from your core and shoulders to your legs and glutes. This has a major impact on the musculoskeletal system, strengthening your muscles over time. It also strengthens cardiovascular and respiratory fitness, improves mental health, reduces inflammation, and is an awesome way to burn calories. After only 20 minutes in the water, I was already feeling hungry.

The Takeaway

One of the many things I love about working with others is that they often help me on my own wellness journey. It's a powerful reminder that our genes are not our destiny. The key is to find activities you enjoy and will engage in consistently. Swimming can be physically taxing, but it's a form of movement I'd encourage everyone to explore for an improved healthspan.