Swimming and exercise help keep blood flowing, which is beneficial for many areas of general health. Your body's capacity to transport nutrients and oxygen to cells to maintain operating at peak efficiency is increased when your circulation improves. Your immune system's headquarters, the bone marrow, receives nourishment from your increased circulation, which also benefits your overall health. The removal of waste products and improved circulation both lower inflammation and support the vital functions of your immune system. (Howley, 2021)
Swimming in the winter may hold a crucial secret to good health and life. One explanation for this is that swimming in cold water has been demonstrated to increase the amount of white blood cells, a component of the immune system, that are circulating in your blood. (Howley, 2021)
Swimming in cold water challenges your body in a way that encourages the release of white blood cells since your body creates more of them when under stress. Studies conducted in 2011 show that swimming in cold water significantly increased red blood cells and platelet counts, as well as the number of white blood cells. (Howley, 2021)
To stay motivated this winter, drop into one of our aquatic classes!
See the monthly aquatics class schedule located on the Houstonian app by selecting ‘Aquatics Class Schedule’ under the ‘Aquatics’ header.
By: Kalvin Spells
Houstonian Club Lead Swim Coach
Source: https://www.usms.org/fitness-and-training/articles-and-videos/articles/4-reasons-why-swimming-is-great-for-your-immune-system