YMCA Healthy Living Magazine, powered by n4 food and health Spring 2018 | Page 3

SWIMMING
NOT JUST A
SUMMER ACTIVITY
Here’s why it’s important to swim all year round.
love for the water is a typical part of the Australian
identity, and swimming is one of the most popular
recreational activities that people of all ages can
enjoy. There’s a serious side to this activity though, as teaching
children to swim is not just a great way for them to get fit – it’s
also a crucial skill that could one day even save their life.
A
While for many, swimming is seen as a summer activity,
swimming indoors through the colder months can also be a
fantastic way to escape miserable weather and help your child
get the recommended 60 minutes of exerci se a day, in a warm
and welcoming environment.
Swimming has many benefits as it develops strength, flexibility
and stamina, while also improving posture and balance.
Swimming can also be good for your mental wellbeing, as
water can block out external stimuli and have a meditative
effect. In addition, regular exercise – regardless of the chosen
activity – has been shown to reduce the symptoms of
depression and anxiety.
When learning any task, repetition is important for skill
retention, and this applies especially in young children who are
developing their muscle memory. For this reason, continuing
swimming lessons regardless of the season, means your child
will continue to build their confidence and independence in the
water, without suffering a lapse in their swimming ability.
in different locations and environments, where even competent
stroke swimmers can still find themselves in trouble while in
the water. Our instructors teach essential water safety, personal
survival, and open water techniques that will prepare you and
your child for a range of different situations.
Studies have even shown that children who learn to swim from
a young age also reach many developmental milestones earlier
than their non-swimming peers. So don’t wait until summer to get into your bathers... dive into
swimming this spring.
At the Y, our lessons go beyond learning freestyle and
backstroke. We understand that swimming often takes place To enquire about swimming lessons or to find your
local Y visit victoria.ymca.org.au
SPRING 2018 YMCA HEALTHY LIVING MAGAZINE
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