Dr. Frykman’s Vibrant Potential Blog

Today I want to discuss one of the best exercises you can do to soothe
your aching joints.  This exercise has many benefits that you can’t get
from treadmills, elliptical machines, and walking.

The exercise…

SWIMMING

One of the great benefits of swimming is it works for everyone.  It’s
beneficial for all shapes, sizes, and ages.

Did you know that water supports 90% of your body weight?  This
makes swimming a very kind exercise for your body.

Another great thing about swimming is that any direction you move
your body in the water, the water provides resistance and helps to
tone your muscles and make them stronger.  Swimming is also great
for your heart and lungs and builds stamina.

Now, if you’ve never really used swimming as a main form of exercise,
here are some tips to get you started.

First, consider water aerobics.  This will get you used to the water and
the feeling of resistance.

Another option is to start swimming.  The two most favorable swimming
strokes to get started are the “freestyle” and the “breast stroke.”

Start off by seeing how many laps (from one end of the pool to the other
and back) you can do without having to rest.  It may only be one, but it’s
good to find that out.  You can always rest in between laps as needed.

Try to work up to 500 yards of continuous swimming.  That’s 10 laps in
most pools.  You can do any type of swimming stroke during the exercise,
or a combination of several.  Also, don’t worry about how fast you swim
as that’s not as important.  (Unless speed is your goal, than you can talk to
me about that as I have a USAT coaching certification)

All you really need to get started is a swimsuit and access to water. However,
I would recommend you getting some swim goggles to protect your eyes
from the chlorine in the water, plus you’ll be able to see better!

All in all I think swimming is an excellent exercise.  If you haven’t swam
in awhile, then why not give it a shot?  I think you’ll like how it makes
you feel.

Until next time, have a great day!

Yours in health,

Dr. Chris Frykman

Exercise is so important.  Everyone knows that.  Exercise is the best remedy for an unhealthy body composition (too much fat or too little muscle usually).  It’s also the best way to annihilate depression.  It makes your heart more healthy and boosts your immune system.
But there are so many ways to exercise.  Ever wonder any of these questions?

Do I need to lift weights like Todd?
Why is Tammy always running?
What the heck is yoga all about?
What’s right for me?

First of all, stretching, strengthening, and cardiovascular work are all important components of a complete exercise regime.  Secondly, it’s very important for most people that they enjoy their workout.  Most people won’t continue to do something they don’t enjoy.  The best workout is the one that you actually DO!

The martial arts are a great activity.  It’s one of the most complete forms of physical exercise.  It’s fun.  There is a social component.  There is great diversity within martial arts so you can find one that suits you best.  There is a strengthening component as well as stretching and cardiovascular work.

It’s also a fun family activity.  I appreciate that in my busy schedule I’m able to bring Kara, my seven-year-old daughter with me and we’re both able to get in a workout at our individual levels and at the same time have some emotional bonding.

Martial arts are an excellent way for children of all ages to build self esteem, respect, find out about integrity, self- control and more wonderful traits.  Many parents have reported seeing an increase in their childs grades after enrolling them in martial arts.

If you’re in my area and you want to check out a great martial arts studio, check out River City Martial Arts Academy in Chaska.  It’s an excellent studio with many options including Taekwondo, Kung fu, Jujitsu, and more.  I’m a part time instructor there and the owner has given me permission to pass a great savings onto you.  I believe it’s 10% off tuition and a free uniform($55 value).  Give the head instructor (Linda Walters) a call and let her know you want the Vibrant Potential special.

Loving Life!

Dr. Chris Frykman