I have forgotten the absolute joy of lap swimming.  There is such freedom and lightness in the water that it almost feels like you aren’t exercising!   You are, of course because you are breathing hard and your muscles are working from tips to toes but gliding in the water feels like silk and there’s no sweating.  I love that!

Swimming is a fabulous workout on its own but it’s an excellent complement to running.   Swimming is a full body workout, can increase cardiovascular fitness and endurance and is a non-weight bearing activity which means while you won’t get any bone-density bonus like you would from walking or running, it’s a great way to recover after a hard run or can be beneficial as an alternative exercise if you are injured.

Here are some local pools in the area.  If you are not a member day fees range from a few dollars a day (at the TL Community Center) to $15.

YMCA Marin – www.ymcasf.org

Osher Marin Jewish Community Center  – www.marinjcc.org

Terra Linda Community Pool – http://www.cityofsanrafael.org/Visitors/Terra_Linda_Community_Pool.htm

Other than a pool, you simply need a bathing suit, a pair of goggles and a swim cap.  Oh and if you are swimming at an indoor pool, don’t forget the flip flops.  You don’t want to get any foot crud!

Now go run!

Keli 🙂