Swimming this summer

Coach/Teacher, General, Participant/Parent

August 16, 2023

The swimmers take to the water. Together, they put one arm in the water, and then the other, rotating their heads every few seconds for a breath. The summer heat warms the water surface and the swimmers swim a while longer before heading back to shore.

Swimming is a popular summer activity, and many people head to their local lake, beach, or pool to cool off. A recent study explores the possible reasons for why someone might get injured out on the water. The study researchers reviewed over 20 articles on injury risk factors in competitive swimming.

The researchers did not find evidence that range of motion was related to injury risk. However, they did find evidence that factors relating to the shoulder, such as previous injury and certain types of shoulder strength, might affect a swimmer’s risk of injury.

When it comes to recreational swimming, having a buddy is a good plan in case an injury occurs. At the very least, it will help provide some company to go with the sun and waves.

To learn more, visit the Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/sms.14454

To learn more about swimming injuries and how to prevent them, visit the Swimming page.

To find more resources about adventures outdoors, such as swimming, visit AdventureSmart.