# data[].attributes.body
There's no waves, so you could float and relax.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Few summer vacation issues are more divisive than the classic "ocean vs pool" argument. For decades, people have escaped to the water for vacation and relaxation, but for as long as pools have been around, families have fought over which body of water-the ocean or the swimming pool-is better for vacation.

While we believe there's no correct answer, we've put together a list of perks associated with both the ocean and the pool. Hopefully this will help you decide!

Ocean Perks

Sand is more comfortable and versatile than the concrete surrounding a pool

Saltwater is better for your skin

The waves offer activities like surfing, boogie boarding, kite surfing, and more

You can go fishing in the water and catch your own dinner

Calming sound of the ocean as the waves crash on the shore

Sand helps to exfoliate your feet

Fewer insects due to wind coming off the ocean

Pool Perks

No animals, like fish or dolphins, in the water

The water is clear, so you can see straight to the bottom

No waves, so you can float and relax

Chlorine is better for sensitive skin than saltwater

Less of a trek to get back home when you want to

Fewer seagulls to snatch your lunch

Not likely to cut your foot on a shell hiding under the sand

No need to choose between beach and pool: with Surfside Realty's vacation rentals, you can take advantage of the best of both worlds! Contact us today to learn more.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Ocean VS Pool: The Great Debate - Surfside Realty Rentals Blog

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Few summer vacation issues are more divisive than the classic "ocean vs pool" argument. For decades, people have escaped to the water for vacation and relaxation, but for as long as pools have been around, families have fought over which body of water-the ocean or the swimming pool-is better for vacation.

# data[].attributes.body
The water is more clear in a pool so you can see what is under you.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Few summer vacation issues are more divisive than the classic "ocean vs pool" argument. For decades, people have escaped to the water for vacation and relaxation, but for as long as pools have been around, families have fought over which body of water-the ocean or the swimming pool-is better for vacation.

While we believe there's no correct answer, we've put together a list of perks associated with both the ocean and the pool. Hopefully this will help you decide!

Ocean Perks

Sand is more comfortable and versatile than the concrete surrounding a pool

Saltwater is better for your skin

The waves offer activities like surfing, boogie boarding, kite surfing, and more

You can go fishing in the water and catch your own dinner

Calming sound of the ocean as the waves crash on the shore

Sand helps to exfoliate your feet

Fewer insects due to wind coming off the ocean

Pool Perks

No animals, like fish or dolphins, in the water

The water is clear, so you can see straight to the bottom

No waves, so you can float and relax

Chlorine is better for sensitive skin than saltwater

Less of a trek to get back home when you want to

Fewer seagulls to snatch your lunch

Not likely to cut your foot on a shell hiding under the sand

No need to choose between beach and pool: with Surfside Realty's vacation rentals, you can take advantage of the best of both worlds! Contact us today to learn more.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Ocean VS Pool: The Great Debate - Surfside Realty Rentals Blog

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Few summer vacation issues are more divisive than the classic "ocean vs pool" argument. For decades, people have escaped to the water for vacation and relaxation, but for as long as pools have been around, families have fought over which body of water-the ocean or the swimming pool-is better for vacation.

# data[].attributes.body
Chlorine is better for sensitive skin than saltwater.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Few summer vacation issues are more divisive than the classic "ocean vs pool" argument. For decades, people have escaped to the water for vacation and relaxation, but for as long as pools have been around, families have fought over which body of water-the ocean or the swimming pool-is better for vacation.

While we believe there's no correct answer, we've put together a list of perks associated with both the ocean and the pool. Hopefully this will help you decide!

Ocean Perks

Sand is more comfortable and versatile than the concrete surrounding a pool

Saltwater is better for your skin

The waves offer activities like surfing, boogie boarding, kite surfing, and more

You can go fishing in the water and catch your own dinner

Calming sound of the ocean as the waves crash on the shore

Sand helps to exfoliate your feet

Fewer insects due to wind coming off the ocean

Pool Perks

No animals, like fish or dolphins, in the water

The water is clear, so you can see straight to the bottom

No waves, so you can float and relax

Chlorine is better for sensitive skin than saltwater

Less of a trek to get back home when you want to

Fewer seagulls to snatch your lunch

Not likely to cut your foot on a shell hiding under the sand

No need to choose between beach and pool: with Surfside Realty's vacation rentals, you can take advantage of the best of both worlds! Contact us today to learn more.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Ocean VS Pool: The Great Debate - Surfside Realty Rentals Blog

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Few summer vacation issues are more divisive than the classic "ocean vs pool" argument. For decades, people have escaped to the water for vacation and relaxation, but for as long as pools have been around, families have fought over which body of water-the ocean or the swimming pool-is better for vacation.

# data[].attributes.body
The ocean is more dangerous to swim in than a pool.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Answer (1 of 23): Be it any water body, my heart automatically reminisces at the very first glance! (Well, I am Aquarius, the water carrier) But the comparison between Beach and Pool? Let's give a try! BEACH: * The best natural asset. The soothing music of the waves is something that energize...

# data[].attributes.body
You can also get very ill from drinking saltwater from the ocean.

# data[].attributes.body
The saltwater of the ocean influences your buoyancy, or the ability to stay afloat , unlike swimming in a pool.

# data[].attributes.body
Swimming in a pool has no age limit but an ocean doesn't either but you can't go to far out to swim.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Swimming is one of those workouts that can easily be a second thought - the gym always seems to take priority. Only as you step into the pool do you ask yourself, why haven't I done this sooner? If you're debating whether to invest in a new swimming cap and brave the lanes, here are 10 incredible reasons why you should.

If the thought of being tied to a treadmill sends shivers down your spine, renew your love for swimming. Combined with a well balanced diet, 4 x 40 minute swimming sessions a week can really help shed excess weight.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a "154-pound person burns around 510 calories by swimming laps for an hour," reports Livestrong, proving that it's still possible to blast fat at an intense rate without running miles. To maximise your calorie-burn, don't stick to one stroke - the butterfly is the trickiest of the bunch, but great for weight loss, with the potential burn 800 calories an hour!

Don't tire yourself out with crunch after crunch - take a dip in the pool instead. Swimming can be a great core workout. Freestyle swimmers: to stay perfectly aligned and at your fastest pace, you need to ensure that your core is engaged. At first, you may struggle to keep your stomach strong/tight and swim well at the same time to begin with. But the more you practice, the more familiar it will become, and eventually you'll do it instinctively from push-off. Hello six-pack!

As a low-impact sport, swimming can also help relieve aches and pains. If you're suffering from a bad back or knee pain, swimming could be just the exercise you need to take the pressure off. Its rehabilitating effect stems from the fact that it isn't a weight-bearing workout; the water provides support as you stretch, relax and heal.

Coupled with yoga and pilates, swimming is up there as one of the best sports in promoting flexibility. It stretches and tones the areas of your body that are neglected as a result of sedentary living, including the hips, back and hamstrings.

If you've a very weight-driven/cardio-heavy training schedule, it's easy to forget the role flexibility has in improving your sporting performance. It strengthens, sculpts, and helps you pick up speed. Gradually increase your range of motion through swimming. Features of the pool such as the water resistance and buoyancy reduce the impact of the exercise on your joints, enabling you to stretch and flex comfortably and effectively.

The beauty of swimming is that it has no age limit. Research from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that introducing a baby from as young as 2 months old to swimming is a great way to enhance their development. It improves their sense of balance/ability to reach for objects. At the same time, swimming is also said to improve bone health and gradually ease symptoms of arthritis in older adults. It's one sport that suits all.

Swimming can also be an incredibly social activity, allowing friends and family to relax/have fun, and get fit at the same time!

As a total body workout, swimming is one of the best exercises at boosting cardiovascular health. The resistance of the water makes the heart work harder, improving circulation/blood flow as a result. The natural buoyancy and warm temperature of the pool also stops you from feeling the actual intensity of your training, allowing you to push harder and faster in your cardio workout, and strengthen your heart even further. If you want to naturally lower your blood pressure, swimming is a great way to do it.

Exercising may not be your first choice when it comes to relaxing in the evening - lounging in front of the television? Now you're talking. But little do people realise that swimming provides greater stress relief than your favourite TV show.

Endorphins aside, not only does swimming stimulate those lovely mood-boosting hormones, but it also provides an opportunity for you to clear your mind and take perspective of your day. Some hard-hitting gym-goers hate the peace and quiet the pool provides, but if you're in need of a serious wind-down, swimming can help.

The stress-busting attributes swimming brings also work on a deeper level for those with a mental illness. If you suffer from anxiety, swimming can help ease pent up tension/muscle pain and allow you to be mindful/worry-free as you exercise. However, it's important that the pools you swim in are well heated, as cold water doesn't have the same effect (around 78-80 degrees). What's more, it's the perfect workout for those who are self-conscious about the way they look, as swimming tones, sculpts and strengthens the whole body - leaving you looking great, and feeling even better.

Swimming gives you breathing space - literally. On average, we breathe anything between 12-20 breaths a minute; it's second nature to us. That being said, a large proportion of us also suffer from stress-related symptoms. In the UK alone, healthcare specialists, Bupa found that from a survey of 10,000 participants, 44 per cent suffer from stress.

The two relate - breathing and stress - a surprising amount. When we feel stressed or anxious, our muscles start to tense and tighten up. This makes breathing harder, to the extent that some people experience a shortness of breath, or even panic attacks.

Swimming helps to calm and regulate your breathing. As you work on perfecting your stroke and technique, your breathing improves alongside, which in turn can help lower blood pressure, aid weight loss and eliminate toxins. Swimming is the ideal workout for those who suffer from asthma, as it encourages you to open up your lungs and control your breathing.

Ultimately, if you're looking for a workout that breaks up your gym routine, swimming is the exercise for you. Even if you need music to train effectively, there are waterproof earphones available now to keep you company when you're swimming.

And remember, floats aren't just for kids. If you're new to the pool, a small float can help you master your stroke. Or if you're looking to improve/concentrate on your kick, by holding the float flat or horizontal, you can create a tougher swim that's more leg-focused. Make it fun - grab a friend and start swimming!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Top 10 Benefits Of Pool Swimming | realbuzz.com

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Swimming is one of those workouts that can easily be a second thought - the gym always seems to take priority. Only as you step into the pool do you ask yourself, why haven't I done this sooner? If you're debating whether to invest in a new swimming cap and brave the lanes, here are 10 incredible reasons why you should.

# data[].attributes.body
Swimming in an ocean has strong tides and a pool doesn't.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Summertime has begun and it's prime time for ample amounts of sunblock and swimming, no matter if it's in a swimming pool or at the beach. However, did you know that there are important differences between beach swimming and pool swimming that could make a huge difference in your child's safety this pool season? As you prepare you child for fun in the sun, review these important differences so you can make the best decisions for your family and keep them safe this summer.

Beach Swimming

Open Water

Beach swimming involves open water and strong tides. Before you get your feet wet, it's important to note that it's best for beginner or novice swimmers to stay in the surf. Only swim in lifeguard-protected areas designated as swimming areas. Obey all rules and instructions from lifeguards.

Weather Conditions

Since open water can change from calming to ferocious in a matter of minutes thanks to weather, it's important to stay alert and keep up with the latest weather conditions in the area. Pay attention to warning flags and ask a lifeguard about current water conditions and potential hazards.

Strong Tides and Rip Currents

Even if you and your child are confident in the water, it's important to make sure you have enough energy to swim back to shore over tides. Rip currents are very dangerous and responsible for many deaths every year and can appear in any open water area, in low spots and breaks in the sand, or near piers. It's always good practice to avoid permanent rip currents by staying at lest 100 feet away from jetties and piers. Always swim or float parallel to the shore until you are out of the current.

Pool Swimming

Pool Drains, Openings, and Suctions

Pools have drains, suctions, and entrapments that could be potential hazards for small children. To avoid these hazards, use caution around these parts of the pool and be mindful of body limbs, hair, jewelry that could get entangled. Additionally, consider keeping hot tub and spa jets off when children are in the spa. These are suction devices that can pull them under.

Appropriate Safety Equipment

While the pool isn't in use, setting up a pool safety fence surrounding the area can prevent children from falling into the pool. Avoid leaving small water toys, balls, or electrical appliances in and around the pool which could distract or be hazardous to small children. When a pool is being used, it's always important to have an adult supervisor who is able to closely watch swimmers at all times.

Pool Depth

Many swimming pools will have various pool depths, especially if the pool has a diving board. Remind your children that there shouldn't be any running or horseplay around the pool area and to only dive in the deep areas of the pool while under an adult's supervision.

Enroll in Age Appropriate Swim Lessons

The best water safety tip we recommend for both pool and beach swimming is learning how to swim. By enrolling your child in age appropriate swim lessons, you're providing them will water safety and swimming skills that last a life time and could save his or her life. Boat trips, snorkeling, water sports, and pool parties are all experiences that require the ability to swim to be fun and safe. Click here to learn more about our swimming programs.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Important Differences Between Pool Swimming and Beach Swimming -Texas Swim Academy

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Summertime has begun and it's prime time for ample amounts of sunblock and swimming, no matter if it's in a swimming pool or at the beach. However, did you know that there are important differences between beach swimming and pool swimming that could make a huge difference in your child's safety this pool season?

# data[].attributes.body
If you have to take a break while swimming in the pool you could just stop at the side instead of having to get out like the ocean.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Always be aware of your surroundings when swimming.

Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images

Swimming is an excellent full-body exercise that promotes endurance, muscle growth and a healthy cardiovascular system. No matter where you choose to swim, the fitness benefits are similar. Nevertheless, there are several factors to consider when deciding between pool and ocean swimming; your choice may impact the quality of your swim and, ultimately, its fitness benefits. It is imperative for safety that you master swimming in a pool prior to taking your swim routine to the ocean.

Swimming Pool Benefits

Swimming in a pool for fitness has numerous benefits. In comparison to ocean swimming, there is greater control which results in more focus on your swimming rather than your surroundings. Ideally, it will be a safe environment supervised by trained lifeguards in case of emergency. Additionally, you have the option of taking a break on the side if you feel too tired. The water temperature is regulated and generally maintain at a tolerable level conducive to swimming. Moreover, you can easily keep track of the distance you swim based on the measurement of the pool to ensure you are meeting your fitness goals. Even better, swimming in a pool gives you the option to swim indoors or out as many gyms, school and local community facilities have indoor pools.

Swimming Pool Drawbacks

Swimming in a pool can become monotonous, especially in indoor facilities. Moreover, there is usually a limited space for swimming laps so you may have to wait your turn. If you choose an outdoor location that also serves as a recreational facility, you may run into people more interested in swimming for fun, which could result in interference and interruptions. Recreational water illnesses are also a threat from germs in private and public pools despite chlorination.

Ocean Swimming Benefits

The variables of temperature, water density, waves and currents as well as ever changing surroundings can make ocean swimming both exciting and dangerous. Swimming in an ocean can help you swim more efficiently as your learn to master currents as well as challenge your strength against waves. The saltwater of the ocean influences your buoyancy, or the ability to stay afloat. The buoyancy of salt water helps to increase your swimming speed as you will be closer to the surface. Unlike pool swimming, the germ factor in oceans is usually not as serious due to water circulation. Nevertheless, illnesses can result from microscopic sea life or swallowing too much sea water. Free space is also a benefit to ocean swimming; if one area is crowded, you can easily move elsewhere to find a location for uninterrupted swim.

Ocean Swimming Drawbacks

Many of the benefits of ocean swimming have contrasting drawbacks. The ever changing surroundings that provide for a more interesting swim can also be dangerous. Rip currents and waves can increase the change of drowning. Additionally, waves that break on the shore called shorebreaks can result in neck and spine injuries. When you are swimming in the ocean, you are in a natural environment with little control of your surroundings. Weather and wildlife can greatly impact your swim through adverse conditions and possible injury. Although most marine life will stay away from people, it is important to be vigilant for predators like sharks and even smaller creatures such as rays, crabs and jellyfish who may injure you in self-defense. Supervision is mandatory for ocean swimming due to its unpredictability. However, many oceans do not have lifeguards.

About the Author

Jennifer Carr, MSHE specializes in health and wellness, fitness, nutrition, alternative medicine and treatment for substance abuse. She has served as a health-care communicator and recovery coach, providing support and guidance for individuals going through treatment for addictions. Carr completed her Master of Science in health education at Arcadia University. She graduated from Villanova University with a Bachelor of Arts.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Swimming is an excellent full-body exercise that promotes endurance, muscle growth and a healthy cardiovascular system. No matter where you choose to swim, the fitness benefits are similar. Nevertheless, there are several factors to consider when deciding between pool and ocean swimming; your choice may impact the quality of your swim and, ultimately, its fitness benefits.

# data[].attributes.body
Swimming in a pool is a safer environment because the lifeguards pay attention more than watching people in the ocean.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Always be aware of your surroundings when swimming.

Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images

Swimming is an excellent full-body exercise that promotes endurance, muscle growth and a healthy cardiovascular system. No matter where you choose to swim, the fitness benefits are similar. Nevertheless, there are several factors to consider when deciding between pool and ocean swimming; your choice may impact the quality of your swim and, ultimately, its fitness benefits. It is imperative for safety that you master swimming in a pool prior to taking your swim routine to the ocean.

Swimming Pool Benefits

Swimming in a pool for fitness has numerous benefits. In comparison to ocean swimming, there is greater control which results in more focus on your swimming rather than your surroundings. Ideally, it will be a safe environment supervised by trained lifeguards in case of emergency. Additionally, you have the option of taking a break on the side if you feel too tired. The water temperature is regulated and generally maintain at a tolerable level conducive to swimming. Moreover, you can easily keep track of the distance you swim based on the measurement of the pool to ensure you are meeting your fitness goals. Even better, swimming in a pool gives you the option to swim indoors or out as many gyms, school and local community facilities have indoor pools.

Swimming Pool Drawbacks

Swimming in a pool can become monotonous, especially in indoor facilities. Moreover, there is usually a limited space for swimming laps so you may have to wait your turn. If you choose an outdoor location that also serves as a recreational facility, you may run into people more interested in swimming for fun, which could result in interference and interruptions. Recreational water illnesses are also a threat from germs in private and public pools despite chlorination.

Ocean Swimming Benefits

The variables of temperature, water density, waves and currents as well as ever changing surroundings can make ocean swimming both exciting and dangerous. Swimming in an ocean can help you swim more efficiently as your learn to master currents as well as challenge your strength against waves. The saltwater of the ocean influences your buoyancy, or the ability to stay afloat. The buoyancy of salt water helps to increase your swimming speed as you will be closer to the surface. Unlike pool swimming, the germ factor in oceans is usually not as serious due to water circulation. Nevertheless, illnesses can result from microscopic sea life or swallowing too much sea water. Free space is also a benefit to ocean swimming; if one area is crowded, you can easily move elsewhere to find a location for uninterrupted swim.

Ocean Swimming Drawbacks

Many of the benefits of ocean swimming have contrasting drawbacks. The ever changing surroundings that provide for a more interesting swim can also be dangerous. Rip currents and waves can increase the change of drowning. Additionally, waves that break on the shore called shorebreaks can result in neck and spine injuries. When you are swimming in the ocean, you are in a natural environment with little control of your surroundings. Weather and wildlife can greatly impact your swim through adverse conditions and possible injury. Although most marine life will stay away from people, it is important to be vigilant for predators like sharks and even smaller creatures such as rays, crabs and jellyfish who may injure you in self-defense. Supervision is mandatory for ocean swimming due to its unpredictability. However, many oceans do not have lifeguards.

About the Author

Jennifer Carr, MSHE specializes in health and wellness, fitness, nutrition, alternative medicine and treatment for substance abuse. She has served as a health-care communicator and recovery coach, providing support and guidance for individuals going through treatment for addictions. Carr completed her Master of Science in health education at Arcadia University. She graduated from Villanova University with a Bachelor of Arts.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Swimming is an excellent full-body exercise that promotes endurance, muscle growth and a healthy cardiovascular system. No matter where you choose to swim, the fitness benefits are similar. Nevertheless, there are several factors to consider when deciding between pool and ocean swimming; your choice may impact the quality of your swim and, ultimately, its fitness benefits.

# data[].attributes.body
Swimming in a pool gives you the option to swim indoor or outdoor.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Always be aware of your surroundings when swimming.

Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images

Swimming is an excellent full-body exercise that promotes endurance, muscle growth and a healthy cardiovascular system. No matter where you choose to swim, the fitness benefits are similar. Nevertheless, there are several factors to consider when deciding between pool and ocean swimming; your choice may impact the quality of your swim and, ultimately, its fitness benefits. It is imperative for safety that you master swimming in a pool prior to taking your swim routine to the ocean.

Swimming Pool Benefits

Swimming in a pool for fitness has numerous benefits. In comparison to ocean swimming, there is greater control which results in more focus on your swimming rather than your surroundings. Ideally, it will be a safe environment supervised by trained lifeguards in case of emergency. Additionally, you have the option of taking a break on the side if you feel too tired. The water temperature is regulated and generally maintain at a tolerable level conducive to swimming. Moreover, you can easily keep track of the distance you swim based on the measurement of the pool to ensure you are meeting your fitness goals. Even better, swimming in a pool gives you the option to swim indoors or out as many gyms, school and local community facilities have indoor pools.

Swimming Pool Drawbacks

Swimming in a pool can become monotonous, especially in indoor facilities. Moreover, there is usually a limited space for swimming laps so you may have to wait your turn. If you choose an outdoor location that also serves as a recreational facility, you may run into people more interested in swimming for fun, which could result in interference and interruptions. Recreational water illnesses are also a threat from germs in private and public pools despite chlorination.

Ocean Swimming Benefits

The variables of temperature, water density, waves and currents as well as ever changing surroundings can make ocean swimming both exciting and dangerous. Swimming in an ocean can help you swim more efficiently as your learn to master currents as well as challenge your strength against waves. The saltwater of the ocean influences your buoyancy, or the ability to stay afloat. The buoyancy of salt water helps to increase your swimming speed as you will be closer to the surface. Unlike pool swimming, the germ factor in oceans is usually not as serious due to water circulation. Nevertheless, illnesses can result from microscopic sea life or swallowing too much sea water. Free space is also a benefit to ocean swimming; if one area is crowded, you can easily move elsewhere to find a location for uninterrupted swim.

Ocean Swimming Drawbacks

Many of the benefits of ocean swimming have contrasting drawbacks. The ever changing surroundings that provide for a more interesting swim can also be dangerous. Rip currents and waves can increase the change of drowning. Additionally, waves that break on the shore called shorebreaks can result in neck and spine injuries. When you are swimming in the ocean, you are in a natural environment with little control of your surroundings. Weather and wildlife can greatly impact your swim through adverse conditions and possible injury. Although most marine life will stay away from people, it is important to be vigilant for predators like sharks and even smaller creatures such as rays, crabs and jellyfish who may injure you in self-defense. Supervision is mandatory for ocean swimming due to its unpredictability. However, many oceans do not have lifeguards.

About the Author

Jennifer Carr, MSHE specializes in health and wellness, fitness, nutrition, alternative medicine and treatment for substance abuse. She has served as a health-care communicator and recovery coach, providing support and guidance for individuals going through treatment for addictions. Carr completed her Master of Science in health education at Arcadia University. She graduated from Villanova University with a Bachelor of Arts.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Swimming is an excellent full-body exercise that promotes endurance, muscle growth and a healthy cardiovascular system. No matter where you choose to swim, the fitness benefits are similar. Nevertheless, there are several factors to consider when deciding between pool and ocean swimming; your choice may impact the quality of your swim and, ultimately, its fitness benefits.

# data[].attributes.body
To ocean swimming  there is greater control which results in more focus on your swimming rather than your surroundings.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Always be aware of your surroundings when swimming.

Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images

Swimming is an excellent full-body exercise that promotes endurance, muscle growth and a healthy cardiovascular system. No matter where you choose to swim, the fitness benefits are similar. Nevertheless, there are several factors to consider when deciding between pool and ocean swimming; your choice may impact the quality of your swim and, ultimately, its fitness benefits. It is imperative for safety that you master swimming in a pool prior to taking your swim routine to the ocean.

Swimming Pool Benefits

Swimming in a pool for fitness has numerous benefits. In comparison to ocean swimming, there is greater control which results in more focus on your swimming rather than your surroundings. Ideally, it will be a safe environment supervised by trained lifeguards in case of emergency. Additionally, you have the option of taking a break on the side if you feel too tired. The water temperature is regulated and generally maintain at a tolerable level conducive to swimming. Moreover, you can easily keep track of the distance you swim based on the measurement of the pool to ensure you are meeting your fitness goals. Even better, swimming in a pool gives you the option to swim indoors or out as many gyms, school and local community facilities have indoor pools.

Swimming Pool Drawbacks

Swimming in a pool can become monotonous, especially in indoor facilities. Moreover, there is usually a limited space for swimming laps so you may have to wait your turn. If you choose an outdoor location that also serves as a recreational facility, you may run into people more interested in swimming for fun, which could result in interference and interruptions. Recreational water illnesses are also a threat from germs in private and public pools despite chlorination.

Ocean Swimming Benefits

The variables of temperature, water density, waves and currents as well as ever changing surroundings can make ocean swimming both exciting and dangerous. Swimming in an ocean can help you swim more efficiently as your learn to master currents as well as challenge your strength against waves. The saltwater of the ocean influences your buoyancy, or the ability to stay afloat. The buoyancy of salt water helps to increase your swimming speed as you will be closer to the surface. Unlike pool swimming, the germ factor in oceans is usually not as serious due to water circulation. Nevertheless, illnesses can result from microscopic sea life or swallowing too much sea water. Free space is also a benefit to ocean swimming; if one area is crowded, you can easily move elsewhere to find a location for uninterrupted swim.

Ocean Swimming Drawbacks

Many of the benefits of ocean swimming have contrasting drawbacks. The ever changing surroundings that provide for a more interesting swim can also be dangerous. Rip currents and waves can increase the change of drowning. Additionally, waves that break on the shore called shorebreaks can result in neck and spine injuries. When you are swimming in the ocean, you are in a natural environment with little control of your surroundings. Weather and wildlife can greatly impact your swim through adverse conditions and possible injury. Although most marine life will stay away from people, it is important to be vigilant for predators like sharks and even smaller creatures such as rays, crabs and jellyfish who may injure you in self-defense. Supervision is mandatory for ocean swimming due to its unpredictability. However, many oceans do not have lifeguards.

About the Author

Jennifer Carr, MSHE specializes in health and wellness, fitness, nutrition, alternative medicine and treatment for substance abuse. She has served as a health-care communicator and recovery coach, providing support and guidance for individuals going through treatment for addictions. Carr completed her Master of Science in health education at Arcadia University. She graduated from Villanova University with a Bachelor of Arts.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Swimming is an excellent full-body exercise that promotes endurance, muscle growth and a healthy cardiovascular system. No matter where you choose to swim, the fitness benefits are similar. Nevertheless, there are several factors to consider when deciding between pool and ocean swimming; your choice may impact the quality of your swim and, ultimately, its fitness benefits.