It's summertime. That means it's water time. Hey. It's Jerry and Summer on WGTS 91.9.
Time for the HealthCare minute. And you're probably gonna be around water, pools, lakes, the ocean, that sort of thing. So it's important to be safe when you do that or when you exercise in the water. So Jason Herron, he's an exercise physiologist with Adventist HealthCare Sports Performance Institute, and he's got some safety tips for us around the water.
So Jason, I have, what we like to refer to as little mermaids in our family. They love love swimming. But what are some of the ground rules that parents should set for their kids around water?
Always listen and follow directions near water. Listen to the lifeguards. If you need to wear a life jacket in and around the water, especially if your child is not a strong swimmer, adult supervision at all times is necessary. Set boundaries of areas of play around the water. Swim near lifeguards and only when they are present, and ask for permission to enter the water.
Unless we're already doing it, we may not think about this. But tell us about some of the benefits of exercising in the water.
Yeah. Absolutely. So swimming in the water is a low impact form of exercise.
Makes it easier and a little more gentle on the joints and muscles.
It's natural resistance. Water will provide that natural resistance for you. A little bit different than weights, and it's a full body workout. Swimming in the water pretty much works the entire body's musculature, so it's super neat that way.
What are some tips if we do start exercising in the water to stay safe?
Yeah. Absolutely. Talk to your doctor before beginning any exercise, program in the water to ensure it's safe for you. Use appropriate flotation devices as needed, like life jackets. Make sure they're secure, and enter and exit the water through the ladder to avoid any slips or falls. Make sure you're hydrated before and after your workout so we don't cramp up in the water. And start slowly and gradually increase the intensity.
Thanks so much for that, Jason. We appreciate it. If you wanna hear more with Jason or other health minutes, check out wgts919.9.com. And as always, a big thanks to Adventist HealthCare for sponsoring today's HealthCare Minute.
