Swimming Reduces Death Rates in Men

by Ryan Halvorson

Making News:

Men seeking longevity may want to trade their running shoes for a pair of swimming goggles. A study published in the International Journal of Aquatic Research and Education (2008; 2 [3]) determined from a review of medical and physical activity data on 40,547 men aged 20–90 years that swimming could be the best exercise method to enhance longevity. After making adjustments for age, body mass index, smoking status, alcohol intake and family history of cardiovascular disease, study authors found that regular swimmers were 49% more likely to survive longer than runners. Authors also noted that for swimmers, “all-cause mortality risk” was 53% lower than for men who were sedentary and 50% lower than for men who walked regularly. While this information is promising, no details were provided on the frequency or methodology of physical activity in the three movement-oriented groups, nor were any theories presented as to why swimming trumped running or walking in relation to mortality.

However, according to lead study author Steven Blair, PED, “swimming provides a healthful alternative to traditional modes of exercise for improving cardiorespiratory fitness and health for the general population, as well as for patients suffering from chronic diseases. Swimming may be a good alternative exercise for individuals who cannot participate in running or other forms of physical activity.”