Dr. Konstantino Avradopoulos serves as a physician and staff surgeon at Heywood Medical Group, a Massachusetts-based nonprofit organization associated with Heywood Hospital. Beyond his professional responsibilities at the hospital, Dr. Konstantino Avradopoulos enjoys swimming. As a regular exercise, swimming can offer a number of health benefits, such as the following:
1. Lowers blood pressure - Numerous studies exist that demonstrate the positive effect of swimming on blood pressure, reducing the risk of stroke, heart disease, and other health problems. The resistance of moving through water also builds muscle and aids with blood-sugar control.
2. Helps manage stress - Swimming increases oxygen flow in the muscles and helps regulate breathing, which can help to manage stress. One group of researchers surveyed 101 swimmers before and after swimming, and found that of the 44 people who reported feeling mildly depressed or slightly stressed before swimming, only eight reported feeling so after the activity.
3. Strengthens the whole body - Swimming utilizes muscles throughout the entire body, from the arms and legs to the back and glutes. Regular engagement in swimming can improve muscle tone, build endurance, and strengthen the body.
4. Promotes pain relief - As a low-resistance activity, swimming can help with pain and swelling associated with arthritis and musculoskeletal problems. Water immersion reduces pressure on the joints, and exercising in warm water can help relieve joint stiffness and increase flexibility.
