Swimming v/s walking: Which is better for heart health?
What's the story
Swimming and walking are two of the most popular forms of exercises that provide cardiovascular benefits. Both activities can improve heart health, enhance circulation, and boost overall fitness levels. While the former provides a full-body workout with low impact on joints, the latter is accessible and easy to incorporate into daily routines. Understanding the unique advantages of each can help you choose the best one for you.
Aquatic exercise
Full-body workout in water
Swimming works multiple muscles at once, giving a complete workout that strengthens the heart and lungs. Water resistance tones the muscles while putting less strain on joints, making it perfect for anyone suffering from arthritis or injuries. Swimming regularly can improve cardiovascular endurance by increasing heart rate and ensuring proper use of oxygen.
Simple steps
Walking: Accessible cardio option
Walking is perhaps the easiest exercise to start off with. You don't need any special equipment/facilities for it. It's ideal for people of all ages and fitness levels, providing a convenient way to keep cardiovascular health in check. A brisk walk can increase heart rate, improve circulation, and help manage weight when practiced regularly.
Energy expenditure
Calorie burn comparison
Both swimming and walking burn calories nicely, but at different rates depending on how intense and long you do them. Swimming generally burns more calories per hour since it's a full-body workout. However, if you walk at a brisk pace over longer periods, it can be just as effective. Monitoring calorie expenditure can help you tailor workouts to your fitness goals.
Mindful movement
Mental health boosts from exercise
Like swimming or walking, regular physical activity helps in keeping the body fit and the mind clear. Exercise releases endorphins which lower stress and keep you stable. Be it the rhythmic strokes in water or the meditative pace of walking, both activities do wonders for your mind.