Is Swimming Better Than a Treadmill?

benefits-of-swimming

The benefits of swimming and using a treadmill are many. While they both have their advantages and disadvantages, choosing which one is best for you largely depends on your personal preferences and fitness goals. See our gallery here.


Being busy pool designers and pool contractors, we at Passion Pool & Pond are quick to admit we love the many benefits of swimming. 

If you’re ready to improve your lifestyle and physical and mental health with a beautiful new pool, call us for a preliminary visit to discuss your dream pool design or pool installation.



Here are our top 11 physical and psychological benefits of swimming:

1. Full-body workout: Swimming engages multiple muscle groups at once, providing a comprehensive workout for the entire body.

2. Low-impact exercise: Swimming is easy on the joints, making it an excellent choice for people with arthritis or other conditions that affect their mobility.

3. Cardiovascular health: Swimming is an aerobic exercise that can improve cardiovascular health by strengthening the heart and lungs.

4. Weight loss: Swimming burns calories, making it an effective way to maintain a healthy weight.

5. Improved flexibility: Swimming enhances flexibility by working the joints through a full range of motion.

6. Stress relief: Being immersed in water can reduce stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, and promote relaxation.

7. Social activity:
Swimming can be a social activity, providing an opportunity to connect with others and build relationships.

8. Therapeutic value: Swimming can be therapeutic for people with certain health conditions, such as fibromyalgia or multiple sclerosis.

9. Improved coordination: Swimming requires coordination between the arms, legs, and breathing, which can improve overall coordination.

10. Enhanced lung function: Swimming requires controlled breathing, which can enhance lung function and capacity.

11. Being outdoors in nature: Listening to the birds sing, experiencing a breeze in the air, and scents of flowers and shrubs are beautiful ways to exercise. Enjoy the beauty of your yard and nature.



Downsides of swimming

One downside of swimming is that it requires access to a pool, which may not be readily available or convenient for everyone. 

  • Swimming can be challenging for beginners who are not confident in their swimming abilities. 
  • Learning proper technique and building endurance can take time and effort. 
  • Finally, swimming may not be as effective at building bone density as weight-bearing exercises such as running or weightlifting.



Benefits of using a treadmill

1. Convenient use: A treadmill allows for an easy workout, as it can be done at home or at the gym. 

2. Builds bone density: A treadmill is a weight-bearing exercise. Treadmills help to build bone density, making them an excellent choice for people at risk of osteoporosis. 

3. Cardiovascular health: Running on a treadmill increases endurance and burns calories.

4. Custom control over the workout: The user can adjust the incline, speed, and duration of the workout to match their fitness level and goals. 

5. Winter usage: Additionally, using a treadmill can be a year-round activity, as it can be done indoors during inclement weather.

6. Weight loss: Running or walking on a treadmill will promote weight loss.

7. Enhanced lung function: A treadmill workout is excellent for enhancing lung function and capacity.


Downsides of using a treadmill

  • One downside of using a treadmill is that it can be hard on the joints, especially if the user has existing joint problems. 
  • The repetitive nature of running can also lead to overuse injuries such as shin splints or plantar fasciitis. 
  • Finally, treadmill running can be monotonous and boring, making it difficult to stay motivated.

Which is better?

Ultimately, whether the benefits of swimming or using a treadmill are better for you depends on your personal preferences and fitness goals; both swimming and using a treadmill offer numerous health benefits. 

Both of these exercises fit nicely into a fitness routine to help you achieve your health and wellness goals.


  • If you enjoy being in the water, swimming may be a more enjoyable form of exercise. It is also an excellent option for those looking for a low-impact workout that is easy on the joints.
  • If you prefer to run or are looking to build bone density, using a treadmill may be a better option.


Contact Passion Pool & Pond by phone at (519) 949 0774 or online.

We also offer a range of water features, such as fountains, waterfalls, and spas, to enhance your pool area’s aesthetics. See our new Fibreglass Pool colour, Seaside Sky, perfect for a vacation feel and view all of Imagine Pools’ colours as well.

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