Originally published February 1, 2010
In her mid-sixties, my Mother became alarmed about osteoporosis. After consulting her doctor for things she could do to combat this possible health problem, she began walking a couple miles a day. On her next visit, she asked what she could do next.
“Swim,” came the answer.
So, even though my Mother wasn’t particularly comfortable around water, she began swimming twice a week at the local college pool. I always thought this was admirable and also something I would never do.
Fast forward a couple decades and I am now my Mother’s age. I’m not concerned about osteoporosis, but nevertheless I have found the benefits of swimming. I started by taking aquacise classes at our local health club. For a while, they were very enjoyable and provided a great cardio workout. But many of the women in the class came to talk during it, while I came to exercise. After a while, their conversations began to annoy me.
On the principle that the only behavior I can change is my own, I decided to try swimming laps instead. It’s a solitary activity not prone to conversation. That was six months ago. Now I’m quite the devotee and am even taking swimming lessons to improve my form and my efficiency. I feel exhilarated after half an hour’s swim. And perhaps I understand a little better how my Mother felt as she took up swimming to combat her own concerns.
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