How Swimming Can Improve Bad Circulation
If you suffer from bad circulation, trying to get rid of that annoying ache or having to constantly shake your legs into action can be a real day-to-day annoyance.
While many recommend stretching, yoga or even running as a way to combat your circulation issues, these options don’t always solve the problem. So, why not opt for something different?
Swimming is a great way to get the blood moving, and while many associate it with strenuous exercise, even half an hour in the water can vastly improve those circulatory issues.
Take a look at why and read how you should take a dive at your local pool below.
What Are the Symptoms of Bad Circulation?
Chances are, at some point in your life you’ve had pins and needles. It’s annoying yes, a little shaking and squirming will sort you out however.
But if you suffer from poor circulation, pins and needles, numbness and aching (similar to the childhood sensation of growing pains) are an almost every day occurrence.
It’s not restricted to the waking hours either. Bad circulation can strike at any time and the condition can often keep sufferers awake or unfocused for lengthy periods of time.
How Can Swimming Help?
Ask anyone - swimming has always been recommended as an excellent workout. It gets almost every muscle moving and in a short space of time you can really improve your overall strength and fitness.
But it’s also suggested to those who often find themselves struggling with their circulation.
So why is exactly is this?
It Takes the Pressure Off
For starters, it relieves the pressure on your body as you float through the water - there’s no pounding the pavement or maxing out your muscles as you try desperately to lift those weights. Instead, your body floats and hydroplanes through the soft water, relieving the extra stress that can be placed on your joints throughout the day.
It Gets the Blood Pumping
One of the fundamental issues with bad circulation is exactly what it says on the tin, your blood just isn’t pumping the way you and your body want it to.
While swimming, your heart rate steadily increases and improves the circulation around your body, including to common problem areas such as legs and feet. This is different to running and many other forms of exercise as swimming raises the heart rate without putting extra pressure on your body.
Your Blood is Circulated More Efficiently
When your body pumps more blood with a lower heart rate (as is common with swimming) the efficiency of your circulation greatly improves.
The resistance provided by swimming is gradual, but adequate enough to promote an increase in overall strength.
Alongside this, once the workout is complete, you won’t be left with a thumping heartbeat that in turn stands to damage the efficiency of your circulatory system.
Basically, Swimming is Great
It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, and if you’re a weak swimmer the thought of entering the pool can be borderline terrifying.
However, you don’t have to be the next Michael Phelps in order to improve your circulation by jumping in the pool.
Just half an hour can make a huge difference on your circulation, and if you’re a chronic sufferer who is often woken up at night by aches, numbness or tingling sensations, then it may be worth at least giving it a try.
Read More
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