Should I add swimming to my workout?

jls1661

So here's some quick background info on why I'm asking. I had a severe injury a few years back that pretty much damaged the entire right side of my body from mid-back down. I was on bed rest for about a year with all the surgeries and such, was told I'd have to use a cane for the rest of my life. At the age of 26, the cane was not an option. Busted my butt in physicall therapy and I'm proud to say I'm cane free. I moved to a drier climate and have improved even more. And that's my sad story...moving on.

So I've been going to the gym about 5 days a week and have noticed my hip is starting to bother me. I use the machines that I used in physical therapy, just longer and more intense. I stretch out really good in the middle of my workout and when I'm done. I've come so far that I don't want to stop working out. So I thought maybe if I substitute swimming maybe 2 days a week it would be helpful and still keep me on track.

Any thoughts/suggestions ect. would be appreciated. Thanks!

bhagavatilad1

so sorry about your troubles. Swimming is excellent exercise. I think the more variations in exercise the better for you.

miadvh

I'm not an expert on any of this, but swimming is a great way to get a workout without putting too much strain on your body. I say, go for it! I bet it will do you some good.

And wow! That's awesome that you overcame everything and are living cane-free!

NiciS72

I would highly recommend swimming and/or water aerobics. I had back surgery 12 years ago and was not allowed to bend, twist, lift or basically use my back for 3 months. The muscles atrophied and I was a mess. I couldn't even pick up a grocery bag without pain. PT only caused me MORE pain and I was barely able to walk afterwards. My Ortho sent me to a Physiatrist, a Dr. who specializes in physical medicine. He was the one who pointed me to water aerobics. When I started I was unable to do crunches on land let alone in the water nor could I twist my torso. After about 6 months I had 80% of my range of motion back and was able to do crunches in the water without issue. I can now say I can do crunches on land without issue either. The water is great as it supports you whilst offering resistance as well.

Wishing you luck!

calimari

Yes, add swimming. I started MFP in May, and I've been swimming in the lake by my house nearly every day if possible, if the weather is good. Now that it's cooling off, my swim time will be ending and I'm dreading having to rely more on biking, walking, aerobics. I have back issues too, and swimming has made the most difference for me.

gfderms

Hi...get the book "Heal your Hips" by Dr. .Robert Klapper, M.D......get in the pool and do the exercises and expect great things! You will get results. My best snd good luck on your inspiration path. Ann

mikesmaniacmind

Yes add swimming, swimming works pretty much every muscle in your body. One of the best exercises there is.

keola64

swimming is considered 1 of the most ultimate of exercise ,it builds stamina ,muscle,and includes cardio all in 1,take for instance athletic swimmers/competition swimmers they have an excellent physical physique ,I am a swimmer and if you swimmer hard and push your self it foes wonders for the body,any 1 who disagrees don't swim a lot they play around in the water,swimming is good also because its easy on your joints,if you have the time and place YES you should swim as an exercise like I said just look at your typical swimmers body/lifeguard,ect.

jls1661

Looks like I'm switching gyms. It's off to the pool for me. Thanks for the tips and advice!!