“Let your hook be always cast. In the pool where you least expect it, will be fish” -Ovid

Swimming isn't just a fun summer activity…it’s great for your health!

While you’re enjoying your summer vacation, you may also be doing your heart, lungs, and muscles a great service.

Swimming is an amazing workout for many reasons, including:

  • It uses nearly all the major muscle groups
  • It places a vigorous demand on both your heart and lungs
  • It effectively develops muscle strength and endurance
  • Like yoga, it helps to improve posture and flexibility
  • Water’s buoyancy is especially useful for pregnant women and individuals suffering from injuries
  • Unlike land exercises, exercises done in the water do not cause the same high-impact stress on fragile joints and bones
  • Individuals with chronic problems, such as back pain, can often include swimming and water exercises in their fitness routine, even when other exercises are prohibited or painful
  • All ages and proficiency levels can enjoy swimming

Remember to practice good water safety and enjoy the benefits of water exercise in this last month of summer!

"We must be free not because we claim freedom, but because we practice it." -William Faulkner

This Fourth of July and Summer Season, remember these important tips.

Have fun in the sun by practicing the four “Sun Guide” basics:

1. Minimize Sun Exposure

Just because you’re vacationing doesn't mean you have risk your health. Schedule indoor activities during the hours of the sun’s most intense rays (typically between 11am and 3pm).

2. Seek Shade

Create shade in your backyard or garden so you’ll have more places to enjoy the outdoors.

3. Cover Up

Be aware of the damages caused by the "invisible sun" on overcast days. You may not feel like you're developing a sunburn on cloudy days, when the temperature or breeze keeps skin’s surface feeling cool, but injury is still possible.

4. Use Sunscreen

Common sites for skin damage and skin cancer are the neck, ears, temples, lips, nose, and face. These body parts need extra protection.

Also remember:

  • Drink more green and black teas during the summer. Certain compounds in tea act as anti-inflammatories and antioxidants, helping skin cells to fend off cancerous changes.
  • Studies show that boosting your fruit and vegetable intake can help protect you against many forms of cancer. Eat more tomatoes and papayas (both contain vitamin C and E), bell peppers, strawberries, and citrus fruits (high in vitamin C), cooked spinach, pumpkin, and broccoli (high in vitamin E).
  • Sweating causes you to lose body fluids. Drink plenty of water in hot weather to avoid heat-related illnesses.
  • Some medications may increase your sensitivity to sunlight. Check with your doctor before heading to the beach or pool.
  • Good sun care includes using after-sun skin care, including aloe or mineral creams that replenish moisture.