YWSF Masters Swimming – For Lifelong fitness and wellness
Masters Swimming is a great excuse to get out of the house and do something good for yourself. The concept of Masters swimming began in the 1970's and has members in the dozens of countries from all corners of the globe.
Do you want to develop better technique? How about training for triathlons, open water swims, swimming competitions or just looking for a great way to stay in shape? If you said “yes” to one or more of the above, look no further! The YMCA Westside Silver Fins Masters program welcomes swimmers of all abilities the opportunity to be in a workout group with like minded athletes.
Swimming is a magnificent sport for all ages and abilities and has continually been identified as one of the best ways to exercise. Stress reduction, weight control, cardiovascular fitness, reduced cholesterol, increased muscle tone, and endurance are all benefits of swimming regularly. The YMCA Westside Silver Fins subscribe to a philosophy of teaching and training that provides for maximum long-term performances for its swimmers. We would like to invite you to the Southwest Valley Family YMCA and be a part of our swim team!
Why is swimming becoming such a popular sport? As people get older, swimming is one of the few sports that can be continued throughout a person’s entire life.
The benefits of swimming are documented. One of the most important aspects is that it is a non-weight bearing sport. Other benefits include:
- Reduction of physical and mental stress
- Weight loss and control
- Strengthens the heart and improves circulation
- Improvement of overall quality of life by helping people stay in good physical condition year-round
- Eases stress on joints and is therefore an ideal exercise for people with physical disabilities
Masters and Open Water Swimming is a sport for both non-competitive (fitness) swimmers and competitive swimmers. Many swimmers get into the sport because it offers organized workouts and can offer a strong social component. For those that choose to compete, swimmers compete in their own age group by five-year age divisions. Swimmers can begin Masters at age 18 in the United States (age 25 in other countries), and the oldest Masters are nearly 100 years old. Workouts are divided by speed and ability, and swimmers can be challenged to their own personal preference. Masters Swimming has grown from a handful of interested adult swimmers to thousands who compete at regional, national and international levels.
