What kind of exercise does swimming do for you?

Question

I'm considering swimming every other night for outdoor exercise. But at the moment, I want to lose weight, not gain muscle. Is swimming the best exercise for me? And what does it help with? Thanks.

Answer 1

I have to swim because I have Arthritis. In fact I go Aqua Jogging and was told last week that I have good muscle mass? I am 5 foot 3 inches, weigh 55 kilo, have lost weight but do not see any muscle mass? I see weight loss, agree to that and a lot of weight loss, but no muscle mass?
Swimming means you are exercising in water, so almost weight less therefore less strain on joints and freer movement. I find I can move better in the water than on dry land, in fact last week I wanted to stay in the Pool for the rest of my life. Likewise swimming helps with the cardio vascular system, breathing, increase heart rate and it is exhausting. Others in my group are attending to loose weight and they are loosing it without adding any muscle that I can see.

Answer 2

If you can swim,then it's a good choice. It is aerobic and cardio. It tones muscles, but doesn't build muscle mass to an extent you would look more bulky. Remember that muscles burn fat even at rest, so getting toned will make you lose weight as well as boost your energy level, which will mean you are more active, which will burn even more calories, which will.....you get the idea.

Answer 3

tones muscles, and burns calories, not as much as running, but its an easier choice.