If you are an experienced swimmer and have access to a pool then
swimming is a great alternative to running. You’ll get a whole body workout and
easily elevate your heart rate with minimal stress on the legs. Some
less experienced swimmers get frustrated with stroke or breathing
technique and may prefer deep water running or swim aids.
For those who have gotten injured as they increase their mileage,
supplementing your running program with swimming can improve your
running times without the additional impact. Research conducted by
the Milwaukee Heart Institute compared supplemental swimming to supplemental
running. Participants increased their normal training by 10%, either
more running or more swimming. After eight weeks both groups improved
their 2 mile run times, although the run group was slightly faster.
For those who have gotten injured as they increase their mileage,
supplementing your running program with swimming can improve your
running times without the additional impact. Research conducted by
the Milwaukee Heart Institute compared supplemental swimming to supplemental
running. Participants increased their normal training by 10%, either
more running or more swimming. After eight weeks both groups improved
their 2 mile run times, although the run group was slightly faster.