Experts at Burjeel Hospital for Advanced Surgery say swimming boosts bone power

Burjeel Hospital for Advanced Surgery was the Gold Sponsor at the 13th annual Dubai Holding Burj Al Arab Swim scheduled to take place on March 31

Dubai, UAE, April 4, 2017:  Swimming has long been plugged as a great exercise, one that’s easy on the body and good for individuals with joint pain. It is also said to strengthen bones. Studies and research indicate that individuals who frequently swim laps have greater leg bone mass than those who don’t swim at all.

Commenting on the benefits of swimming, Dr. Bhuvaneshwar Machani, Consultant Orthopedics at Burjeel Hospital for Advanced Surgery, Dubai said, “Swimming is the quintessential workout. Its culmination of weight training and aerobics makes it a total-body exercise. The benefits of swimming are plenty for all age groups and all physical abilities. It is recommended that UAE residents add a few laps to their regular routine to discharge monotony, tediousness and to strengthen muscle and bones.”

Bones, in most cases are implied as lifeless skeleton, but our bones are living organs that grows and changes shape throughout our life. Swimming is one such exercise that shapes the bones and builds muscles. As bones play a huge role in our health and general well-being, keeping them healthy is vital. A great diet comprising of calcium and vitamin D, accompanied with omega-3-rich foods are essential for building strong bones. In addition, swimming is one form of exercise which can support the bones beyond what we eat and drink.

“Swimming is the only exercise that makes use of all muscles in a body. It has been shown to increase bone strength, especially for women who are entering menopausal years. And it’s much easier on joints and bones than any other workout,” added Dr. Machani.

Osteoporosis - a disease where bones weaken and lose density is a common sign with women, particularly with older women, who are in their menopause phase. When it comes to finding the right exercises to combat osteoporosis, swimming is often recommended. As a low-impact exercise, it is easy on the muscles and joints and helps improve bone strength.

“Swimming is easy on the body and the bones. As such, many orthopedic doctors and physical therapists use some form of a water workout for their patients who are experiencing joint and bone ailments. For those who are recovering from joint surgeries, a workout in the water is ideal,” concluded Dr. Machani.

Research shows that swimming regularly can lower stress hormones, reduce anxiety and depression and improve sleep patterns and overall fitness levels. Swimming is a fun way to unwind and rejuvenate, spend time with friends and family and can serve as a great alternative to help burn calories. It is noted that an hour of vigorous swimming can burn up to 650 calories. While some swimmers stress that swimming is good during warmer months, The Telegraph reinstated that cold and outdoor swimming is a growing trend in the United Kingdom. From 300 members in 2006, UK's Outdoor Swimming Society membership has grown into over 25,000 in 2016.

Swimming is a great physical activity that engages your entire body. It involves major muscle groups working together, whether for leisure or workout, swimming is definitely packed with physical benefits. In lieu of the same, Burjeel Hospital for Advanced Surgery was the Gold Sponsor of the 13th annual Dubai Holding Burj Al Arab Swim that took place on March 31, which saw swimmers of all abilities above the age of 16 take part in either 800-metre or 1,600-metre race categories. 

The swim was organised by the Dubai Holding Corporate Wellness Programme in partnership with the Dubai Sports Council. It was billed as part of the UAE's 2017 Year of Giving, and all proceeds were donated to the Al Jalila Foundation’s Obesity Research.