Swimming is a revitalizing workout for those who have a fondness for water. Individuals who are fearful of water or lack swimming skills are missing out on a lot.
Engaging in swimming is an aerobic and highly demanding cardiovascular exercise that rapidly burns calories. This form of exercise offers a multitude of advantages, benefiting the nervous system and enhancing circulatory health, among other benefits. There is a wide array of swimming styles to choose from. Let’s delve into Top 10 Swimming Techniques and Their Fitness Advantages
1. Freestyle
Freestyle swimming, as the name implies, allows individuals to select any preferred style and swim freely. The most common style in freestyle is the front crawl, making it easy to learn, particularly for novice swimmers. This style can burn up to 700 calories at a moderate pace.
2. Backstroke
The backstroke involves swimming while lying on your back. It effectively targets the shoulders, arms, thighs, and lower back. This technique can burn up to 500 calories.
3. Breaststroke
The breaststroke emphasizes the chest without much movement in the lower body. It is a calorie-burning powerhouse, with the potential to burn up to 800 calories per hour. This stroke serves as an intense upper body workout, engaging the triceps, shoulders, chest, arms, and legs to some extent.
4. Butterfly
The butterfly stroke involves simultaneous movement of the hands in a backward and forward motion. It offers an intense workout focusing on flexibility and strengthening the arms, chest, and abdomen. Considered the most challenging stroke, it can burn up to 900 calories.
5. Dog Paddle
Similar to how dogs swim, the dog paddle stroke involves paddling the arms and legs alternately while keeping the head and chest above water. It is a leisurely stroke that burns only 200 to 300 calories even at a faster pace.
6. Sidestroke
The sidestroke is a relaxed, long-distance style that relies on alternating sides of the body. It offers a tranquil experience and can be likened to an anesthetic, as it places minimal strain on the knees, back, and legs.
7. Streamline
This streamlined stroke is commonly used to initiate races, providing a powerful push-off and requiring intense stretching of the legs and upper body. It minimizes resistance, enabling a smooth glide underwater.
8. Flutter Kick
A less complex stroke compared to the breaststroke, the flutter kick involves a combination with the dolphin kick. It places significant strain on the thigh muscles and may lead to injuries if performed vigorously.
9. Trudgen Crawl
Similar to the front crawl but incorporating a scissor kick, the trudgen crawl strengthens the back and calves. It promotes a straighter back and enhances calf muscles.
10. Underwater Swimming
Arguably the most daunting style, underwater swimming can enhance lung capacity and nerve control. This technique should only be attempted by proficient swimmers who can prevent themselves from submerging. Trudgen crawl is commonly employed in this technique.
Now that we’ve explored various swimming styles, it’s time to reap the invigorating benefits of swimming. Have a fantastic summer!
