Swimming Pools, Fountain of Youth?

MaryJane is an 81 year old master's swimmer that I swim with. MJ, started swimming over 30 years ago when she turned 50. MJ is an amazing athlete. She has the speed and stamina of people half her age. Coach John will come up with an interval work-out plan and MJ meets the intervals.  Simply amazing.

I wonder about the aging process. Is it attitude, lifestyle, genetics, good weather? I don't know.  But what I do know, is that the abundant winter sunshine and warm weather keeps people some people young and active in South Florida.

Long ago, Ponce de Leon searched for the Fountain of Youth in south Florida.  The Fountain of Youth might be a swimming pool. It's amazing to see octogenarians swimming. But not only swimming, swimming really good. South Florida has a plethora of outdoor swimming pools that can be used 350 days-a-year. People of all ages utilize these pools daily.

Swimming has so many health benefits. It's good for the body, mind and spirit. It's a great form of exercise that is not too hard on the joints. It allows you to stretch  your body akin to yoga. Like yoga, you must balance your body and learn to control your breathing. Also, there is a sense of inner peace and strength after a vigorous workout set.

With people like MJ, I look forward to the future and to continue to swim!

(some pools, bathing suits may be optional...)

Resources:

International Swimming Hall of Fame, of Fort Lauderdale

Hammerhead Aquatics Masters Swimming Club

FINA