It’s unavoidable. As we get older we have more aches and pains, even when we keep active. But injuries aren’t just an issue for those who are north of 35. . .
For me it’s a combination of old and new- bad knees, back and shoulder from years of hockey, and carrying a little too much weight. And that’s before factoring in new injuries from working out and playing sports. Now, sitting on the sidelines isn’t going to do much to help dump the weight, but what can you do when you’re suffering a bit?
Have you ever tried the pool?
Don’t think I swim like a fish, took lessons all my life or swam competitively. I think my dad had a bit of Viking in him; he threw me in the water for me to figure it out. That, and a bit of swimming in school, is the extent of my formal instruction. Since the pool re-opened, however, I’ve come to appreciate the value and effectiveness of swimming.
We’ve all heard it said before, “swimming is a full-body workout”, and “easy on the joints”, things I never used to worry about. Now if my shoulder is sore from that rotator cuff injury or I’m limping around because I hurt my hip flexor, as I try and keep the dream alive playing men’s league, I can jump in the pool, swim some laps and get a great workout in without hurting myself more or delaying recovery.
And like many of you, I wasn’t confident in my abilities in the pool and I didn’t want to be lapped by that 60+ year old who has been swimming every day of her life. But I jumped in. I talked with the lifeguards for advice and pointers and went from there.
On our blog site we have regular swim tips to help the average swimmer and sample workouts so you can more out of your time in the pool.
If you need a little more help or want specific guidance, MacEwan University Sport and Wellness offers Adult and Private Swimming lessons or Masters Swim for those who are competitive and looking for advanced instruction. Sport and Wellness also offers swimming lessons for kids of all ages, including Canadian Swim Patrol and Junior Lifeguard Club.
Even if you’re not hurt, the pool always has a lane available, even when the gym is busy. And there’s nothing like a 10-minute soak in the whirlpool to sooth those aches and pains, or just relax after a swim or a workout.
