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Written by Seena Mathew, Assistant Professor of Biology, University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. It’s no secret that aerobic exercise can help stave off some of the ravages of aging. But a growing body of research suggests that swimming might provide a unique boost to brain health. Regular swimming has been shown to improve memory, cognitive function, immune response and mood. Swimming may also help repair damage from stress and forge new neural connections in the brain. But scientists are still trying to unravel how and why swimming, in particular, produces these brain-enhancing effects. As a neurobiologist trained in brain physiology, a…

Taking those early splashes into swimming lessons can be difficult for parents who have a little one who doesn’t take to water like a fish. Children feel safer when they are in a familiar environment. Yet growing up and learning is all about exploring. So that means your “mini-me” is likely to feel out of their comfort zone now and again. If your tot is having that sinking feeling about being in the pool (no pun intended!), then helping them to become familiar with the idea and process of swimming can be extremely beneficial in the early stages of their…

It takes time for a child to learn to swim well. Longer than some parents expect. And a lot of effort too. Not just from your wannabe swimmer, but also you. Remember how long it took for your child to learn how to walk and talk. How much effort you both put in for them to take their first step or utter their first word. (Or at least you think it was a word!) Skills practised every day, and usually, with no costs involved. But formal swimming lessons cost money. So, consider some of the following suggestions that can make…