Krista Clarke
Author, MC, ACPT

Question: I'd like to know the benefits of swimming as an exercise opposed to other choices (i.e., rollerblading, cycling)? Thanks!

Answer: There are several benefits of swimming. To start with, swimming is great for people who suffer from arthritis, joint pain, or obesity because there is no impact. When using the proper technique, swimming can be a total body workout. If one swims laps continuously, they can also get a great cardiovascular workout.

The downside to swimming is that swimmers tend to hang on to body fat for buoyancy and thermoregulation (to keep you warm). So it is not the most effective method for releasing fat. Also, like cycling, there is no contact with the ground, so it is not a useful exercise to prevent osteoporosis.

If you love to swim but want to lower your body-fat percentage and prevent osteoporosis, add some weight bearing activities to your exercise program like walking, aerobic classes, rollerblading, cardio machines and weight training. In short, cross train!

>Krista is the co-author of "Fat That Doesn't Come Back."

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