How long should i swim to get a good cardiovascular workout?

Question

I run 3 miles a day and usually get good workout going, but i want to try other ways to workout. I have been considering swimming after a run but don't know how long to swim because I won't get hot or sweating, hence the water. I just want to know about how long would give me a good workout or what some of you do.

Answer 1

You wouldn't think it, but you get hot, tired, & red while you're swimming, even though you obv. can't tell if you're sweating.

It's hard to suggest a time because first of all, even people who regularly participate in other sports/exercises, swimming uses a lot of different muscles and it's often more difficult for people.

Also, it depends on intensity, etc. I'm a lifeguard, and there are "old" people who com in and swim for an hour or so.. but not really intensely.  There are also people who swim really hard for not very long at all, but swim harder/faster, and still get in a good workout.

To get a "good" workout, half an hour to start would probably be good.. You should be able to tell yourself if you're getting a good workout or not.. although it will become much more obvious after you get out - you'll probably be starving!

Basically, any swimming you do will be good for you, and just listen to your body!  

Answer 2

I used to be on the swim team and I used to do it 6 days a week for 1 and a half hours and it helped me get very fit not that you probably aren't.  But it also gave an great workout!  Like in swim terms I did an 800 for warm up then like a 200 of each stroke and then I would do some  

practicing with my worst stroke and then best stroke.  After I did that I would do some distance and just do a 1000 or just swim as long as you can.  That all may be a bit much but it is sooooo good for you!

Hope a helped!

Answer 3

Swimming the front-crawl continuously for 30 mins or so, depending on your stamina and level of proficiency should give you a good workout. Rest for 10 mins, then go for another 15 minutes, if you are able. At the end of the session, if you feel warm all over and your arms and deltoids feel stretched, then you have done a good job!

Your performance will really depend on how hard you have run your 3 miles, so you have to adjust your swimming distance or duration accordingly. Wish you well if you are competing in the Biathlon or Triathlon contest! Cheers!

Answer 4

45 to 60 minutes

Answer 5

ok first of all I swim because I'm a martial artist and I do it to keep myself in shape. It really works I mean I do have the most stamina where I train. I can last longer than any of the other guys that I train with. Just because you're not sweating doesn't mean you're not getting a h**l of a workout. Swim for 30 minutes to and hour depending on how long you can last. Also while you're swimming you're working your whole body and as you burn fat you're building muscle. Swimming is one of the best workouts ever!

Answer 6

to gte a good work out for one day u should swim and 45 mins twice  a day and do that for one week you will feel more toned and feel better