When it comes to taking care of our health, nothing beats getting active. In that regard, water sports are notoriously therapeutic; whether it’s swimming in a pool, surfing the waves, exploring ocean depths, boating, or kayaking down at the river, there’s something undeniably thrilling and soothing about being in (or sometimes, on) the water.
So, in the following guide, we shed light on some of the most common benefits of practicing aquatic sports for the body and mind.
1. Mood Booster
Physical exercise, in any form, releases hormones called endorphins, which are natural secretions that lighten our moods and makes us experience happiness and positivity. Inside the water, the feeling of lightness and tranquility is enough to help us relax and unwind. Whether you’re swimming distances or stand up paddleboarding on a beautiful lake, you’re bound to feel more energized, focused, and able to let go of the stress of everyday life.
2. Mental Wellness Regulator
Speaking of which, practicing a water sport is a formidable way to keep stress, anxiety, and a host of common mental health challenges at bay. The water has a positively soothing and calming effect on our minds. It does by focusing the attention solely on the activity, which can help you leave your own head for a while, feel grounded at the moment, and enhance your cognitive skills. When practiced regularly, aquatic sports can work to reduce your likeliness to feel down or depressed.
3. Solid Workout and Fitness Boost
Depending on which discipline you’re interested in, you’re guaranteed to reap some appreciable effects for your physical health as well. Sports such as water polo, swimming, or kite surfing are exceptionally engaging activities that will give your body a well-rounded workout session. In addition, this informative article from FantasticKayaks.com explains that kayaking (and similarly, rowing and rafting) not only works to strengthen your arms and shoulders, but also your back, hips, legs, and core. It might be a good idea to give them a try if you’re looking to get active and experience a nice adrenaline rush!
4. Great Ally for Weight Loss
Looking to shed a few pounds? Taking up a water sport, especially those practiced in the water, can be a super opportunity to get in the shape of your dreams. For instance, swimming is king in the realm of cardio exercises; it engages all your muscles, pumps up your heart rate, and makes burning calories and fat easier. So, instead of sweating it out at the gym, you’ll be practicing an activity in a unique environment (the sea, ocean, or at the pool) which breaks the monotony of running on a treadmill or lifting weights.
5. Improved Joints Flexibility and Bone Density
Being in the water naturally requires a lot of movement to stay afloat, keep yourself balanced and steady, and possibly maneuver gear or equipment. Since you’re constantly moving and engaging your muscles, the result is enhanced joints and bones, as these parts of your body will be naturally lubricated and strengthened for optimal health, mobility, and flexibility. Disciplines such as snorkeling and swimming (again) can be a great option to alleviate common aches for those who suffer from arthritis.
6. Enhanced Cardiovascular Health
One of the greatest attributes of practicing aquatic sports is that it can significantly boost your cardiovascular health; in other words, the strength of your heart and blood vessels. Activities that engage your whole body will promote better oxygenation, enhancing your metabolic functions, and improving your overall wellbeing. Pairing your activity of choice with an adequate and wholesome diet is the key to living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
7. Lowered Risks of Chronic Diseases
Last but not least, sports, in general, are well-known for helping reduce the risks of chronic diseases. As such, individuals who are prone to obesity, diabetes, or chronic heart diseases can witness a significant improvement in their health and immune system with frequent exercise in the water. Of course, there’s always swimming, but you can also try out aqua jogging, canoeing, sailing, freediving, just to name a few. Alone, with relatives or friends, they’re a great opportunity to promote good health, have fun, and make long-lasting memories.
All in all, it comes as no surprise that aquatic sports are some of the most popular athletic disciplines out there. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned athlete, everybody can reap incredible benefits from practicing these activities on a regular basis. They naturally improve our mood and strength, can help us work on our weight, and deliver an appreciable workout; without forgetting all the enjoyment and exhilaration that comes with being in the water!