Swimming is one of the most refreshing sports. The fact that this sport requires you to be in a pool of cool water makes it all the more exciting and rejuvenating. Imagine a hot and sunny day, and you get a chance to jump into the crystal blue swimming pool, and there is nothing else you need. While there is seldom any doubt that swimming is excellent for maintaining physical fitness, it scores high even in the mental health aspect. Swimming is unequivocally therapeutic and significantly influences the mindset of any person who has had a fulfilling session in the soothing swimming pool.

While there are a smorgasbord of benefits of swimming, however, before entering the swimming pool, certain boxes need to be checked.

Here are a few of them:

Take a shower

Taking a shower before jumping into the pool is very important. While you shower, your skin cells are properly hydrated, and they will absorb less chlorinated water. The water in the swimming pool is chlorinated to disinfect it and protect the swimmers from contracting infections from each other.

 

Wear Sunscreen

Before you hit the swimming pool, ensure that you apply sunscreen. Since swimming is usually done outdoors in broad daylight, protecting the skin against the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays is essential. Sunscreen can help you protect against these rays. When you choose a sunscreen, opt for a waterproof and sweat-resistant one because while swimming, you will come in contact with water, which can wash away your sunscreen if it is not waterproof. Similarly, you don't want the sunscreen to go off because of sweat. Therefore, apply a sweat-resistant sunscreen.

Apply natural oil

Sunscreen will take care of your skin, but what about your hair? Despite wearing a swimming cap, it is possible that your hair could be exposed to a bit of chlorinated water in the swimming pool. Therefore, protecting your hair from chlorine is vital. You can apply coconut or olive oil to your hair before entering the pool. The natural oil provides a protective coating for your hair, keeping it moisturised and warding off the chemicals and dryness. Both oils are water-resistant.

 

Apply lotion

Before going to swimming pools, apply a pre swim body lotion. It will help to create a protective barrier around the skin that neutralises chlorine absorption in the skin.

Drink enough water

It is ironic that you feel more thirsty inside the swimming pool surrounded by water. However, you mustn't deprive yourself of water during your swimming session. Carry a water bottle and ensure that you sip water after every 15-20 minutes. Keeping yourself hydrated during any physical activity is the key and helps you perform better and make the most of the exercise.

Concluding remarks:

Swimming is not just a leisure activity. It is a form of workout for your body and you end up losing nutirents and other important elements from your body after swimming. Believe in "Precaution is better than cure". Hydrating yourself is very important and even keeping your skin hydrated is as important before and after swimming. Take measures to keep your skin and body healthy and protect yourself from harmful chemicals in local pools.

Share this with everyone who goes for a swim regulaarly and ask them to comment below.