How to support your joint health as you age – through the joy of open water swimming
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As the weather begins to brighten, people are
rediscovering the simple pleasure of outdoor swimming. Whether it’s the sea, a lake or an open-air lido, taking a dip outdoors can feel invigorating while also being a wonderfully gentle way to stay active.
The natural buoyancy of water means your joints experience far less impact than they would during activities like running or high-intensity
workouts. For many people, that makes swimming a comfortable way to keep moving.
Over time, regular swimmers may find the activity has helped maintain muscle strength and flexibility, both of which play an important role in supporting normal movement and mobility.
For additional ways to support your swimming stroke, try these top
tips:
Start slowly: Ease into your swim rather than pushing hard straight away. Gradually building intensity gives your joints and muscles time to adjust.
Choose strokes that feel comfortable: Some strokes are easier on certain joints than others. Many people find front crawl or backstroke gentler on the knees than breaststroke. Listen to your body
and choose what feels best.
Use supportive equipment if needed: Floatation aids can help reduce strain on certain joints while you build strength and confidence in the water.
Warm up afterwards: Dry off quickly, change into warm clothes and move around a little after swimming to help your joints stay comfortable.
“ I have noticed some amazing benefits”
Mandy Pym, 60, from London @adventures_with_jaws, tells us how outdoor swimming has positively
impacted her life
"I have been cold water swimming for over 4 years, having initially started as a way to spend some quality time with one of my closest friends. Despite starting as a novice, I have now caught the bug and make it a weekly habit to swim in a local open-air lido.
“Over the years I have noticed some amazing benefits, with the activity helping me cope physically and mentally while I wait for a hip replacement. It’s such a great way for me to keep active without compromising the health of my joints and I know it’s something I’ll be able to do for years to come.
“As well as this, I have found such a wonderful community in the water. The relaxed and encouraging nature of the people I’ve met have not only allowed me to be myself, but I also feel much more body positive than I did before I started. I am so grateful that outdoor swimming has had such a positive impact on my life.”
While swimming is a great way to help maintain your joint function long-term, a supplement may help to support joint health from the inside out.*
GOPO® Joint Health contains specially cultivated naturally sourced rose-hip with a uniquely high level of GOPO®. Long-standing research projects have focused on rose-hip with a high level of GOPO®. Rose-hip may play a valuable role in the maintenance of joints and joint tissues!
GOPO® Joint Health is available from Boots, Amazon, Holland and Barrett and independent chemists and retailers nationwide.
*Alongside a healthy diet and lifestyle.
Rose-hips help maintain healthy and flexible joints. Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of bones and cartilage. Vitamin C contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and the normal function
of the immune system. Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied diet and healthy lifestyle.
