For Healthy Feet and Legs-Try Swimming

Feb. 10, 2011 - PRLog -- OK, I admit it-with such a famous name, I am partial to swimming as a most beneficial activity.  For over 35 years now, I am asked on a daily basis, “Are you the Olympic swimmer—or “can I see your gold medals?”  Overall it has been fun, and I might add has worked to my advantage on occasion. I have gotten front seats in the theater and have been able to get a reservation in restaurants that have been booked for weeks. When they ask me if I am the “real” Mark Spitz I say yes I am (I might be stretching it a bit), when I answer. After all I am “real”-just ask my family, and I am Marc Spitz!
Let me get serious for the moment and discuss the subject at hand, swimming.  From a sports medicine viewpoint, swimming and other water activities can greatly enhance cardiovascular and muscle function.  Due to the consistency of water, it is a “great equalizer”.  This means that a 35 year-old, 250 pound football player has no real advantage over an 80 year-old, 100 pound female.  This is true because of the resistance created in a water environment, as well of the minimal effects of gravity while in the water.  Add to the equation that swimming and other water activities are the ultimate low impact workout-which creates only minimal stress on the bones and joints of the foot and leg.
Swimming itself will benefit the cardiovascular system, can help reduce cholesterol levels and lower high blood pressure.  When swimming you are utilizing and enhancing muscles of both the upper and lower body.  Water aerobics have also become more popular and are offered by many public and private facilities.  Water aerobics consists of fun and beneficial activities such as “jumping-jacks”, unique stretching exercises, and in water race competitions.
With all new endeavors check with your physician first, if you get the OK, head to the nearest pool-and tell them Marc Spitz sent you!

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The Foot Pain Center was established in 1974 by Dr. Marc Spitz. An all-inclusive practice, we offers comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic medical care for patients with general foot and toenail disorders, diabetic problems and peripheral neuropathy.