Paul Thompson is a regular at Harry Jerome pool, but you have to get there early to catch him at it.  He starts at 6:00am, swimming in the Masters Program at Harry Jerome Pool.  Paul feels swimming helps keep him healthy, strong and mentally sharp.  

 “Any form of exercise offers health benefits,” Paul said.  “I like swimming because it is low impact and aerobic and you come out feeling refreshed.”

For almost eight decades Tor Hugdahl has found peace and resilience in the swimming pool.  He first learned to swim as a child in Norway and has made swimming a regular part of his fitness routine ever since.  He even competed in swimming races a couple of times, clocking 50 metres in 40 seconds.  But racing isn’t why he swims.  It’s about so much more than that.

“Swimming gives me peace of mind,” Tor explained.  “I like the front crawl the best.  It helps me relax and keeps me healthy.  That’s very important, especially at my age.”

The health benefits of swimming
This experience isn’t out of the ordinary. Experts have long agreed that swimming has many benefits – both physical and mental. 
It’s an excellent form of exercise, building endurance, cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength. Yet it’s low impact, meaning the joints aren’t placed under significant pressure. It releases serotonin and endorphins, known as feel-good hormones. Research also shows that swimming can limit the risk of depression, boost self-esteem and reduce stress levels. 

Shelley is one of group of approximately 15 North Shore women who call themselves the Cork Dorks (CDs).  I became the most recent addition when I joined their book club a few years ago.  I never knew reading could be so physically challenging! 

The role of lifeguards and their lifesaving skills 

• Joint-friendly running – running underwater is great for strength and cardiovascular training without any strain on the ankles, knees or hips
• Cross-training for high-impact athletics – working out in the water provides excellent cross training and prevents overuse injuries
• Full body workout – all muscle groups are worked out in a supported environment

After finishing her degree in Communications with a minor in Business and Political Economy, Amanda chose to return to lifeguarding four years ago when she joined NVRC.  Most recently she’s been working as a lifeguard and swim instructor and now is excited to be starting full time in a role she really enjoys.

For new or experienced swimmers, this activity offers an excellent cardio workout without stressing our joints thanks to the buoyancy of the water. And it’s a full-body workout, exercising more muscles in the body than most other sports. Floating or treading water can also be relaxing, giving your mind time to unwind while your body bobs and flows. An added bonus, it’s often free! 

Here are three benefits to inspire you to go swimming:

What classes do you teach? 
At Karen Magnussen we teach parent-participation, pre-school and school-age swim classes as well as private and adapted lessons. 

How long have you worked for NVRC? 
I have worked for NVRC for two years. I started out co-teaching and leading birthday parties while I was finishing lifeguarding courses.