© Shutterstock

A top-to-toe workout - One of the biggest benefits of swimming is that it really does work your entire body. In fact, it engages almost every major muscle group.

© Shutterstock

A top-to-toe workout - When a person swims, they use their arms, legs, torso, and stomach. Swimming also increases your heart rate without stressing your body, tones muscles, builds strength, and helps manage weight.

© Shutterstock

The feel-good factor - Even a gentle swim can release endorphins, which improve your mood.

© Shutterstock

The feel-good factor - Swimming may also boost confidence and hone social skills, both of which can work wonders for a person's self-esteem.

© Shutterstock

Great for people with injuries -

Swimming can be a safe option for people with injuries, arthritis, and other disabilities—conditions that can make it difficult to engage in high-impact exercise.

Water gently supports the muscles and may benefit those suffering from joint pain and stiffness.

© Shutterstock

Fun in every sense - Taking a swim is never boring. For example, try venturing underwater for a seriously cool Instagram moment.

© Shutterstock

Fun in every sense - Add a little variety to your daily swim. Master a different stroke, or organize a swimming race. And for the super active, try water polo and set yourself a real challenge.

© Shutterstock

Safe during pregnancy -

Swimming is a recommended form of exercise for pregnant women. In fact, moms-to-be can benefit enormously from taking to the water.

Water can help support the added weight  women experience during pregnancy. Light swimming can help them feel more comfortable while staying fit.

© Shutterstock

Teach your baby to swim -

Get your tot used to water by signing up for baby swim lessons. This is a great way to remain active while introducing your newborn to the swimming pool.

You can begin introducing your baby to the water as early as you feel comfortable. Always check with your pediatrician before you head to the pool, though.

© Shutterstock

Suitable for all ages and fitness levels - A person can learn to swim at a very young age, and, frankly, the sooner the better.

© Shutterstock

Suitable for all ages and fitness levels - Swimming allows people to exercise at their own pace, which is ideal for those who are new to water or feel very unfit.

© Shutterstock

A great skill to have -

Moms and dads: get your kids swimming at the earliest possible age. Enroll them in structured swimming lessons, or encourage them to join a swimming team.

If you can swim, you have another exercise option under your belt. And remember, this simple skill is also a potential life saver.

© Shutterstock

Helping to improve sleep - Swimming may have the power to help you sleep better at night. Regular exercise can help banish insomnia, which is good news for older people, who often experience some levels of sleeplessness.

© Shutterstock

Helping to improve sleep - A gentle workout in the pool is therefore a good choice for senior citizens looking to improve their sleep.

© Shutterstock

Good for people with disabilities -

For anyone hampered by disability or limited mobility, the swimming pool is an ideal environment to exercise in.

Water provides resistance and support. It makes the limbs buoyant, helping to support them during exercise.

© Shutterstock

Building cardiovascular strength - Anyone looking to build cardiovascular  strength should consider working out in the pool.

© Shutterstock

Building cardiovascular strength - Cardio involves the heart, lungs, and circulatory system. Even a gentle workout in the water can raise your heartbeat, thus boosting fitness and stamina. Swimming can also help to lower blood pressure and control blood sugar levels.

© Shutterstock

Managing stress -

We all know that exercise is a great way to relieve stress and anxiety.

Hitting the pool is a potentially powerful way to relieve stress. Try lane swimming, where you aim to complete a number of lengths within a given time frame. This can focus the mind and does wonders for body and soul.

© Shutterstock

Burning calories -

Did you know that a 160-pound (72.5-kilo) person can burn approximately 423 calories an hour while swimming laps at a low or moderate pace? What a relaxing way to lose weight!

Of course, someone tipping the scales at 240 pounds (108 kilos), for example, will have to work harder to shed the lead. But even carrying this excess weight a person might burn between 632 and 1,068 calories.

© Shutterstock

Helping with asthma - It's been suggested that swimming is a good form of exercise for people with asthma. Research indicates that the humid environment of swimming pools is of benefit to those suffering from the condition.

© Shutterstock

Helping with asthma - However, some studies also indicate that disinfectant chemicals used in pools can make symptoms worse. If you have asthma, talk to your doctor before taking to the pool. Alternatively, seek out a saltwater pool rather than one that uses chlorine.

© Shutterstock

Improving symptoms of MS -

People with multiple sclerosis (MS) may also find swimming beneficial. Regular pool activity can help reduce pain and discomfort, as limbs remain pleasantly buoyant in water.

Furthermore, people with the disease have reported improvements in MS-related fatigue and depression.

© Shutterstock

Accessible and affordable - Swimming is one of the most accessible and affordable ways to keep fit. And here's the thing: you don't always have to visit a pool to take a dip in the water: swimming in the ocean is one of the most rewarding of outdoor pursuits! Just remember to follow the usual safety precautions.

© Shutterstock

Accessible and affordable -

Likewise, bathing in a lake can be a great way to work out while chilling out. Again, be aware of any warnings restricting entry into the water.

See also: Skip the gym and do these exercises at home instead

© Shutterstock