Why is Lifeguard training and swimming so suitable for the elderly?

Elderly and exercise 

According to the Lifeguard recertification near me, adults should exercise moderately intensively for at least 2.5 hours a week – e.g. brisk walking, cycling, swimming – and should do bone and muscle-strengthening exercises at least twice a week . Sufficient moderate-intensity activity has many positive effects on physical and mental health. 

That is (almost) double compared to 20 years ago. The elderly are therefore increasingly aware of the importance of exercise for their health.  

Learned young is done old: Anyone who finds a sport in time, which he or she likes and can practice safely even at an advanced age, will most likely stay focused even after retirement age. 

Why swim? 

Swimming is extremely popular with the over 65s. 1 in 5 of them say they go swimming (at least) once a week, about 30% would like to swim more often than they do now. What makes swimming so attractive and so healthy, especially for the elderly? 

1. You can exercise without injury

The injury risk of swimming is extremely low; of swimming-related injuries reported in 2020, most occurred outside the pool (impact or slip). 

In contrast to other popular sports such as fitness and cycling, your bones and joints are relieved (" low-impact sport ") during swimming, because the water carries your body.   

This also makes swimming extremely suitable as a rehabilitation sport . Your whole body, all major muscle groups are trained, your bones and joints are protected. This combination is quite unique. 

 2. You feel more comfortable in a swimming pool as an over-65s

The average gym mainly focuses on younger people between the ages of 20 and 40. The type and intensity of the lessons, the music, the entire atmosphere is oriented to the preferences of this target group.  

Among all those young people who want to perfect their bodies, many elderly people feel uncomfortable. 

The audience in public swimming pools is clearly more heterogeneous. Swimming laps is done by all ages (albeit after the swimming diplomas) and all sporting levels. Everyone swims at their own pace, in their own way.  

A swimming pool is already an upgrade compared to a gym, but you can add a huge shovel to it. If you have your own swimming pool at home, you don't even have to take accessibility or opening times into account. Hygiene is also in your hands.  

A plunge pool fits in many private gardens. There is often more possible than you think. Start your day with a swim – great!