NATIONAL SWIM A LAP DAY

NATIONAL SWIM A LAP DAY

National Swim a Lap Day on June 24 dives headfirst into summer by celebrating one of the most refreshing, low-impact, and rewarding forms of exercise on the planet. Get ready to have a celebration of summer fun, give a nod to low-impact fitness, and take advantage of the day to talk about water safety.

#NationalSwimALapDay

You may not know this, but health and fitness experts consider swimming to be the absolute gold standard of exercise. Unlike running or weightlifting, swimming provides built-in resistance while remaining incredibly gentle on your body. This is your invitation to celebrate National Swim a Lap Day by learning (and feeling) the unique physical benefits of moving through water.

Common Swimming Misconceptions

Is swimming stressful on your body?

No. Swimming is not hard on your body. In fact, it removes high-impact stress on your knees, hips, and joints because water naturally buoys your body, removing the impact you feel with running or working out on a treadmill.

Is swimming an effective way to get a cardio workout in?

Yes. Swimming uses almost every muscle in your body at the same time--shoulders, core, legs, and glutes. When all of your muscles are moving, your heart and lungs are getting an adequate workout, too!

Swimming is good for your posture, especially if you spend your time sitting at a desk all day. Each time you swim, your body stretches naturally and elongates your muscles while strengthening them. When you swim freestyle, your chest opens up and moves your shoulder muscles. Your legs become elongated, while stretching your calf muscles and ankles.

HOW TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL SWIM A LAP DAY

If you're ready to make a splash and improve your health, try any of these suggestions to make the most out of National Swim a Lap Day:

  • Commit to swimming at least one full lap three times a week. Swimming a lap can include a backstroke, a "dog paddle" swim, or breaststroke. The goal is to get into the pool and finish. Who knows, you might have enough energy to do a few extra laps!

  • Take a swim class and learn a few different styles of swimming, such as the freestyle, breaststroke, backstroke, or butterfly.

  • Visit a local pool or community center with a pool. These public facilitates are great places to make friends and learn about summer swimming programs for youth in your area. Your interest in swimming can be an inspiration to young people.

  • National Swim a Lap Day is a great time to learn about water safety and rules. If you're an excellent swimmer or certified lifeguard, consider teaching a class or giving swimming lessons in your area.

  • Share your swimming photos on social media using the hashtag #NationalSwimALapDay.

HISTORY BEHIND NATIONAL SWIM A LAP DAY

There doesn't seem to be one specific "creator" of National Swim a Lap Day. We are going to make the assumption that someone decided to start sharing their love for swimming online and the world embraced this fun-filled National Day. The only thing we are certain that is swimming is a great way to cool off on a hot summer's day.