WRITTEN BY JEFFREY T. SPAETH, LMT, CPT

Swimming is good for your health; it can help you lose weight, tone and strengthen muscles and increase your cardiovascular system.

According to the American Swimming Association, studies have shown that swimming may increase your life expectancy. The report states that swimming cuts men’s risk of dying early by about 50 percent compared to runners and walkers.

Swimming is good for both men and women and is likely to reduce heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. Compared to running, swimming is also a lot easier on your joints.

Swimming can support up to 90 percent of your body weight, promotes healing and is a full-body workout that exercises your legs, core, chest, back, shoulders and hands.

Water offers 12-14 percent more resistance than exercising on land. It also continually cools the body, which is especially important during the summer. Swimming burns 500-650 calories per hour merely from the movement of hands and legs.

Swimming is the fourth most popular sport activity in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Swimming stimulates chemicals in the brain that help with nerve cell growth; such as serotonin that influence mood and produces ANP, which is a stress- and anxiety-reducing hormone.

At Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club we have a beautiful pool at your disposal; so come and get your swim on!

Golden Ocala’s resort-style pool provides perfect therapeutic relaxation allowing you to unwind under the Florida sun. Refreshing fountains and shady areas overlook the golf course and the pool has shallow lounging and a dedicated children’s area.