Swimming is indeed a great kind of sport. With the whole body moving against the water current, it is considered as an excellent form of physical and cardiovascular exercise.
A lot of health professionals and doctors today recommend swimming as one of the exercises that can help maintain good health and keep you physically fit.
During the ancient times the Greeks held swimming sessions in full respect and with high regard. It was after more than a hundred years when swimming was reincarnated and became a competitive sport.
- In 1844, British swimmers only relied on the breaststroke as the way to swim. Soon after the reincarnation of competitive swimming, different types of strokes were introduced such as the backstroke and butterfly stroke.
- The backstroke style became a competitive swimming event in the Olympics in 1900.
- In 1912, female swimmers began competing using the freestyle stroke.
- It was in Melbourne Olympic Games in 1956 when the butterfly style of swimming was made known and introduced.
Many famous swimmers from different parts of the world have played different roles and contributions in competitive swimming. Some of the popular swimmers are Janet Evans, Johnny Weismuller, Michael Phelps and Dara Torres. These swimming stars have spent much of their time in the enhancement of different swimming methods and even competitive winning moments.
- Michael Phelps, a swimmer who has the most number of wins and medals compared to any other swimmers in the world.
- Dara Torres became famous for joining the 2008 Beijing Olympics at the age of 41.
- Janet Evans was the youngest Olympics swimmer and won a number of gold medals in Korea and Spain.
What are the benefit of swimming
- Relieves stress because it is a relaxing exercise.
- Increases the flexibility of the body, enhances balance and coordination.
- Serves as a form of therapy for some ailments and medical condition.
- Builds and tones the muscles.
- Helps maintain cardiovascular fitness.
- Keeps the heart and lungs healthy.
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