Groove Magazine Zimbabwe Issue 2 | Page 48

G BODY We have a lot of reasons to love the hot weather that comes with summer because we get to be outdoors more. It also motivates most to get up and work out more because the fashion requires a well toned body, and what better way to get that summer body through some fun summer activities. Swimming Taking a dip in the refreshing waters of the pool is not only fun but a great way of quickly getting into shape. 1. Swimming Increases Cardiovascular Conditioning 2. Swimming Improves Flexibility, Posture & Balance Flexibility refers to our range of motion this includes the ability to maneuver our hands, feet, neck and the back because it requires 44 the entire body to function coherently. This means it forces the body to realign itself in a more uniform manner. This is vital for completing those laps around the swimming pool 3. Swimming is a Great Stress Buster Endorphins are the body’s feelgood hormones that help to neutralize that depressive feeling. Further, the buoyant action of the water has a massage-like effect on the body, helping us to relax. 4. Swimming Increases Muscular Strength & Aids Overall Physical Conditioning Swimming is a unique exercise since it works the core muscles apart from the upper and lower limb simultaneously. This stimulates the formation of lean muscle. Swimming tends work the joints without inducing the risk of an injury. 5. Swimming Surpasses Limitations of Age, Availability or Serious Illnesses Jogging Groove Magazine Zimbabwe 1. Running outdoors helps expose body to sunshine (morning jogging) and open air 2. Improves lung capacity and increases body intake of oxygen. Increase in Oxygen helps effective body fat burning 3. The deep breathing which happens naturally improves stamina. It also improves the body’s metabolic rate (the rate at which food converts into energy) 4. More intake of Oxygen directly into blood stream makes the exercise more effective and produces more energy.