Just to go a few lengths can involve most of the major muscles, giving your body a great tone up. If you crank up the pace you get a brilliant aerobic workout. But because you can swim at your own pace, slowly if you wish, you can keep swimming for much longer than if you going for the burn on a bike. The other big advantage of being in water is that it takes the stress off your joints, so you can put your body through a good workout without your knees, hips or spine paying the price. Although swimming is great if you have joint problems such as arthritis, it won't build up much protection against brittle bone disease or osteoporosis because it is not weight-bearing.
Swimming is a wonderful exercise in pregnancy.
The weight-supporting effect of water means it is especially good in the late stages when you are really struggling to get about. I certainly found blissful relief in the pool from my huge bump. Start children young Knowing how to swim greatly reduces the risk of drowning - one of the commonest causes of accidental death in young people. Start your child swimming at an early age - most people recommend lessons once they can walk, but you can get them in the pool as soon as they are immunised and there are even some courses for this age group. Its never to early to teach them about water safety.