Swimming is regarded by many doctors and educators as the ideal sport, with a significant influence on the mental and physical health and physical development of children and young people.
It has a very low injury rate and does not put strain on children's musculoskeletal systems while they are growing, while also exercising the whole body and the cardiovascular system.
Children are born with a natural affinity for water. The sooner they are introduced to it, the easier it will be for them to learn to swim, feel confident in the water and enjoy all the benefits of exercising in it.
Experts consider the ideal age for children to begin swimming lessons to be between three and a half and four years old, when they can understand their instructor's guidance.
There are also baby swimming classes for children aged three months and over, led by experienced, qualified swimming coaches.
Let's take a closer look at the most important benefits children can gain from taking up swimming:
Improved heart and lung function.
Swimming has a positive effect on the heart, circulation and respiratory system in both children and adults. The pressure and resistance of the water during swimming have a particular effect on the heart, lungs and circulatory system.
Swimming has also been shown to benefit the development of children with bronchial asthma and help them manage the condition more effectively. This is because the air they breathe is warm and saturated with water vapour, making bronchospasm less likely than in other sports. At the same time, swimming strengthens the lungs and breathing muscles, helping to reduce asthma symptoms.
A stronger spine.
During swimming movements, the body is almost horizontal and stretched out in the water. The whole body is in motion, particularly the arms, which move in a rhythmic, alternating pattern. This is an excellent way to strengthen the upper limbs and improve spinal mobility.