Ballywho News

One of the most popular ways to keep cool during a scorching Florida summer is by spending time in the water.

Kids amuse themselves in the pool playing Marco Polo and doing cannonballs. In the ocean, they body surf with boogie boards and float on rafts. Adults lounge in the pool, take dips in the bathtub-calm Gulf of Mexico, or bob in the waves of the Atlantic. Still other people refresh themselves in rivers and lakes.

A popular pastime

No matter where you do it, swimming is a great way to beat the heat. By following a few common-sense rules, you can help ensure that everyone stays safe in or near the water.

• Know how to swim. This may seem like a no-brainer, but not everyone can. There are numerous aquatics facilities in the Miami area that offer classes. They teach you not only how to swim, but how to recognize if someone is struggling in the water, and what to do.
• Watch children at all times. It only takes a minute of inattention for tragedy to strike. Keep your kids continually in your sight.
• Don’t drink and swim. When you consume alcohol, even if you are not legally intoxicated, your reflexes slow down and your judgment becomes impaired. This can make it difficult or impossible to save yourself – or someone else.
• Swim with a buddy. This goes for adults and kids alike. If one of you gets into trouble, the other can help – or find help.
• Know the water and the weather. This is critical with natural bodies of water. Don’t dive in areas of questionable depth, and get a weather report before you go swimming. If you do see lightning or hear thunder, get out! It can travel as far as 15 miles.

Swimming as exercise

Swimming isn’t only fun, it can be a fantastic workout. Here’s why.

• It’s aerobic: Your heart beats faster than usual and you breathe harder, which strengthens your heart and lungs.
• It strengthens muscles: They become more powerful and can endure more force.
• It strengthens bones: Your muscles push against your bones when you support yourself with your bones.
• It stretches you: Stretching improves your flexibility.

Of course, you should consult with a physician before starting any type of exercise program, just to be safe.

If you have questions about the swimming safety or the health benefits of swimming, contact Consult-A-Nurse^® at 1-866-4-HCA-DOCS, or visit Kendall Regional Medical Center online.