Yes, African American women love to swim. Despite the stereotypes of why African Americans don't swim, many African American women are choosing to workout in water. Swimming is an excellent form of exercise for women of all ages. Swimming builds endurance, increases muscle strength and enhances flexibility. Swimming provides a great full body workout and is perfect with people who suffer from injuries. This low impact exercise allows one to experience the benefits of running or walking without the pounding. Many moms-to-be swim to help strengthen the shoulder and abdominal muscles that can be strained when carrying a baby. Swimming has many health benefits including reducing one's risk of stroke, heart attack and diabetes. Some people find that swimming is a great stress reducer. The soothing effects of water combined with rhythmic breathing, creates a calming atmosphere. Lastly, swimming is perfect for increasing self-esteem. Learning to swim or becoming a better swimmer is a great confidence builder while helping you look great and feel great in a swimsuit.
After a confidence building, muscle strengthening, flexibility increasing swim workout, it is important for African American women to take care of their hair. This helps reduce or eliminate the effects of chlorine can have on the hair. Below are steps for hair maintenance for swimmers.
Great Hair Secrets
Before going in the pool
-Put in a leave-in conditioner to the hair. This provides a protective barrier against chlorine.
-Wearing a swimming cap also provides a protective layer.
After the swim
-Use a swim safe shampoo first, followed by a moisturizing shampoo for the second wash
-Be sure to rinse your hair really well to remove the chlorine residue
-Us a moisturizing conditioner and leave on for 3 to 5 minutes
-Rinse well and then apply a leave in conditioner or thermo protectant.
-Proceed to style
Ayana Roberts
Atlanta Personal Trainer
(678) 713-4863