33 | Four Seasons Hemet Herald | DECEMBER 2014 |
Two men, Gary Lewis and Dennis Bovee, both residents won
medals in the Oldlympics this year in swimming. Both men
have suffered health issues — Gary with strokes, and Dennis
in a severe car accident just a year ago that almost took his
life. They have battled back, and swimming is their common
denominator.
Swimming is great exercise for all kinds of people, no matter
what your ability (check with your doctor first before starting
any exercise program). It's an all-body workout. You have to
use all the muscles in your body otherwise you will get easily
tired. It also works your body motor coordination making
you more agile and flexible. It is a low-impact sport. When
you are in the water, the water supports your weight, and it is
gentle on your joints and bones. This is why "fragile" people are
recommended to swim (pregnant women, elderly, etc.).
It improves your fitness and cardiovascular activity.
When swimming, you are doing an aerobic activity and this
stimulates your heart and therefore improves your endurance.
It helps you lose weight. You can burn 500 calories in an hour
of swimming! It improves your posture. Swimming tones your
muscles and gives you a svelte stance. It also reduces stress.
Swimming gives you the energy you need to carry on with your
day, and makes you feel better.
If you don't feel you are a good enough swimmer, try our
Aqua Aerobics Class, led by our own certified instructor
Shannon Ramsey (see schedule and fees).
TWo RESiDENTS BEAT ADvERSiTY To WiN MEDALS iN oLDLYMPiCS