If you're inspired by the strength and stamina of Olympic swimmers then it's time to get in the pool. Swimming offers numerous benefits no matter what your age or health condition. "Swimming conditions your whole body and offers benefits for everyone -- people with arthritis, high blood pressure, diabetes and those recovering from an injury or surgery can work out with virtually no impact," says James Murdock, president of Endless Pools -- makers of counter-current swimming pools small enough to fit inside homes and businesses.
Three-time Olympic gold medalist Rowdy Gaines uses an Endless Pool for training and coaching swim clinics. For fitness he suggests using a kickboard while kicking against the current. "Many swimmers, including me, lose power in their kick when their legs are out of the water," says Gaines. "The Endless Pool is better than open water for correcting this deficiency because the current tends to keep the swimmer's legs submerged. You can't be lazy."
Swimming tones your whole body, raises metabolism, builds endurance and is a great way to lose weight. Because humans are buoyant, swimming provides low-impact exercise for those with injuries and conditions like arthritis. Doctors often recommend swimming to those with high blood pressure and those with heart conditions or recovering from heart surgery. And your time in the pool will help you relax and reduce stress.
But noisy and crowded public pools aren't relaxing and most people can't afford the luxury of an indoor pool in their home. Endless Pools offers an affordable way to swim at home, year-round, in a space as small as 8 by 15 feet. They feature an adjustable broad and deep current allowing anyone to swim and exercise in place. Endless Pools are easy to care for, require little energy and can be installed almost anywhere - even basements and garages.
For a free DVD on the benefits of swimming in an Endless Pool, visit EndlessPools.com.
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