8 Health Mistakes You May Be Making In The Pool | Blog | Simply Swim

Swimming is an excellent form of exercise and an enjoyable way to stay cool in the summer months. However, there are some health mistakes that people often make while in the pool that can have adverse effects on their health. In this article, we will discuss some common health mistakes people make while swimming and how to avoid them.

One of the most important health mistakes people make is not showering before entering the pool. Showering before entering the pool helps remove any sweat, oils, and dirt from the body, which can contaminate the pool water. This contamination can lead to the formation of harmful bacteria, viruses, and other harmful pathogens that can cause illnesses like diarrhoea, skin rashes, and respiratory infections. Therefore, it is essential to take a quick shower before entering the pool.

2 Swallowing Pool Water
Another common health mistake people make is swallowing pool water. This mistake can be hazardous as the water in the pool contains chemicals like chlorine, which are added to kill bacteria and other pathogens. Swallowing pool water with chlorine can lead to health problems like stomach cramps, diarrhoea, and even respiratory issues in some cases. To avoid this, it is important to keep your mouth closed while swimming and avoid swallowing pool water.

Swimming is an outdoor activity, and spending time in the sun can lead to sunburn, skin cancer, and premature ageing of the skin. Therefore, it is crucial to apply sunscreen before going for a swim outdoors. A waterproof sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is ideal for swimming. It should be applied 15 to 30 minutes before entering the pool and should be reapplied every two hours or immediately after getting out of the water.

Swimming is an excellent form of exercise and can cause dehydration, just like any other physical activity. People often forget to drink water while swimming, which can lead to dehydration and other health issues. It is essential to drink water before, during, and after swimming to stay hydrated. This will help maintain the body's fluid balance and keep you healthy and energized.

Swimming is a strenuous activity, and people often overexert themselves without taking breaks. Over-exertion can lead to muscle cramps, exhaustion, and even injuries. Therefore, it is important to take breaks between laps and avoid swimming continuously for an extended period. Taking breaks will help you catch your breath, rehydrate, and prevent any injuries.

Sharing towels is another common mistake people make while swimming. Towels can harbour bacteria and other pathogens, which can lead to skin infections and other health issues. Therefore, it is important to use your own towel while swimming and avoid sharing it with others.

If you have any signs of illness, like diarrhoea, fever, or a cough, it is important to avoid swimming until you recover completely. Swimming while sick can spread germs and lead to the contamination of the pool water, which can cause illnesses in other swimmers. It is essential to take care of your health and avoid swimming if you are not feeling well.

Just like showering before swimming is important, showering after swimming is equally crucial. Showering after swimming helps remove any chlorine, salt, or other chemicals from the skin, which can cause skin irritation and other health problems. It also helps prevent the spread of germs and bacteria, which can cause illnesses.

Ultimately, taking care of our health while swimming is an important aspect of enjoying the benefits of this wonderful exercise and recreation activity.