Why aquatic exercise is making a splash with health-conscious adults

Summer is the perfect season to embrace activities that keep you cool and keep you moving. One of the best ways to do both? Swimming. Whether it’s a gentle float or a few laps, swimming is a low-impact, full-body workout that offers big benefits for older adults.

Why swimming is great for older adults:

• Easy on the joints: The buoyancy of water reduces pressure on your hips, knees, and back, making it ideal for people with arthritis or mobility challenges.

• Boosts heart health: Regular swimming can help improve cardiovascular fitness and circulation.

• Builds strength and flexibility: Moving through water naturally strengthens muscles while improving range of motion.

• Improves balance and coordination: Aquatic movement can help reduce your risk of falls on land.

• Uplifts mood: Like other forms of exercise, swimming releases feel-good endorphins, which can help ease stress and anxiety.

No backyard pool? No problem. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the benefits of water-based exercise without owning a pool:

• Community centres and public pools: Many offer low-cost or free swim sessions for older adults, including aquafit classes designed with your needs in mind.

• YMCA or local fitness clubs: Look for senior swim programs or open swim times. Some facilities even offer warm-water pools, ideal for gentle movement.

• Travel smart: Heading to a cottage or on vacation? Pack a bathing suit—many hotels, resorts, and rentals include pool or lake access.

• Explore natural options: Beaches and lakes are great for casual swimming or water walking. Just make sure the area is supervised and safe for swimming.

As temperatures rise, swimming offers a refreshing way to stay active, beat the heat, and support healthy aging. So, grab your swimsuit, lather on the sunscreen, and make this summer your season to move well and feel great.

McMaster Optimal Aging Blog Posts are written by faculty, staff, PhD students, and external collaborators, and are assessed for accuracy by members of the Portal scientific leadership team.

DISCLAIMER: These summaries are provided for informational purposes only. They are not a substitute for advice from your own health care professional. The summaries may be reproduced for not-for-profit educational purposes only. Any other uses must be approved by the McMaster Optimal Aging Portal (info@mcmasteroptimalaging.org)