It is not a hidden fact that swimming promotes both physical and mental well-being. Whether you are into lap swimming or the thrill of open-water swimming there’s no doubt that both can turn out to be excellent workout sessions.
But which is right for you? We often have questions like this right. Lap swimming near me or Open Water Swimming- let’s compare.
Lap swimming is a form of exercise where you swim back and forth in a pool typically for a set distance or time. It improves cardiovascular fitness, builds strength and endurance and burns calories. The activity can be done solo or like a structured workout program. It also suits swimmers of all skill levels.
Keep reading to know the pros and cons of Lap and open water swimming so you can decide which one to choose.
Lap Swimming: The Benefits and Drawbacks
Open-water swimming is swimming in natural bodies of water such as lakes, rivers and seas. It is a terrific way to enjoy the outdoors while getting great exercise. Safety is essential in open water swimming. Most experts recommend doing it with a partner and wearing a wetsuit in colder water. It is essential to knowof potential hazards to stay safe. Here are a few pros and drawbacks:
Benefits:
- You can practice this on your own pace in the lap swimming pool near me and track your progress
- Lap swimming near me classes are often located in gyms or community centers, making it easy to find
- The low-impact exercise can be easier on joints than other forms of cardio.
- It builds endurance and improves cardiovascular health.
Drawbacks:
- It can get monotonous as you swim back and forth in a pool.
- It can be less exciting than open water swimming, making staying motivated harder.
- Pools get crowded especially during peak hours.
Open Water Swimming: The Benefits and Drawbacks
Open-water swimming is an excellent option for those who enjoy being outdoors and want to try something new. Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks:
Benefits:
- Open water swimming can be more exciting and challenging than Lap swimming as you deal with currents and waves.
- It can be a way to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors.
- It can provide a full-body workout that engages more muscles than lap swimming.
Drawbacks:
- It can be more dangerous than Lap swimming as you deal with changing conditions and potential hazards.
- Open water swimming requires more preparation, such as finding a safe and suitable location.
- It may not be as accessible as Lap swimming as you need to find a suitable body of water.
Finding a Lap Swimming Pool
If you are interested in lap swimming, one of the first steps is finding a pool. You can start by checking out local community centers and gyms. Many of these facilities offer classes and have lap swimming pools available for use. You can also search for Lap swimming near me online to find options in your area.
Equipment for Lap Swimming
A lot of equipment is not needed for lap swimming.However, with a few things you can make your workout more enjoyable. A well-fitting swimsuit allows for a full range of motion is essential. Invest in a pair of goggles and a cap to help you see better and keep your hair out of your face. Some find a kickboard very helpful though.
Tips for Beginners
Getting started cannot be very comforting if you’re new to lap swimming. Here are a few tips to help you feel more comfortable while you begin-
- Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration
- Take breaks as needed to catch breath and rest.
- Focus on the form to avoid injury.
- Set goals for yourself and track progress to stay motivated.
Lap Swimming Workouts
You can try different lap swimming workouts depending on your fitness level. Interval training, where you swim at a high intensity for a set amount of time followed by rest is a popular option.
Another way is distance training where you aim to swim a certain number of laps or distances within a set time frame. You can also mix things up by incorporating different strokes, such as freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly.
Alternatives to Lap Swimming
If you think lap swimming isn’t for you there is nothing to worry about. Plenty of other options are there to get a great workout in the water. Some alternatives include water aerobics, aqua jogging, and deep-water running.
These options offer similar benefits to low-impact exercise and cardiovascular conditioning but in a different format. Search for a lap swimming pool near me or water aerobics classes near me to find options in your area.
The Bottom Line
Are you looking to try out Lap swimming for yourself? Check out Saguaro Aquatics, where we offer lap swimming programs and access to our pool. In Lap swimming near me experienced coaches can help you improve your technique and build endurance. In addition, there is a safe and comfortable environment for workouts. Whether you’re a seasoned lap swimmer or just getting started, there is always a reason to join. Contact us today or visit https://www.saguaroaquatics.com/ to learn more about lap swimming classes near you!
