Whether you walk through the waves or jump off the dock, there’s no better way to cool off than going for a swim.
This summer, as you escape the sweltering heat in one of Ontario’s lakes, think about these head-to-toe benefits your body is receiving from that dip:
Benefits for your brain
Relaxes: floating in the water dulls the sensory information that can overwhelm, creating feelings of calm.
Reduces stress: the rhythmic pattern of swimming provides meditative benefits as you focus on synchronizing your breathing with your body movement.
Benefits for your body
Easy on your joints: swimming is a low-impact exercise which is a good option for people recovering from injuries or with joint pain.
Increases muscle strength and tone: the water provides resistance so that every movement becomes a resistance exercise and helps increase muscular strength and tone.
Head-to-toe workout: nearly all of your muscles are used while swimming, making it an excellent all-over body workout.
Increases flexibility: swimming helps your body achieve a wide range of motion, and is effective at stretching and lengthening your muscles from head to toe as you swim forward.
Expands your lung capacity: controlled breathing during strokes combined with a great aerobic workout makes swimming great for your lungs.
Discover Ontario’s lovely lakes:
Find a swimming area near you using the Park Locator.
For more information on swimming in different parks, check out the “Activities” tab on the individual park pages or dive into one of these suggested swimming areas:
Located on the shores of Lake Superior, this park’s 3.2 km sandy beach is one of the province’s finest. The bay is sheltered from the open lake making its brilliant blue waters the perfect retreat on a summer’s day.
This park is renowned for its crystal clear waters and long sandy beach. Plenty of shade is offered by a nearby stand of Red Pine.
Located close to Toronto along the shores of Lake Ontario, Darlington offers a beautiful stretch of sandy beach (perfect for families!).
Located along the shores of Lake Erie, Long Point features a 2 km long sandy beach with warm waters.
This park features three sandy beaches along the shores of Eagle Lake. The lake is also great for boating, paddling and fishing.
While you’re there, check out their new 18-hole disc golf course!
Windy Lake Provincial Park has one of the most popular beaches in the Sudbury area. Why? Its scenic views, crystal clear water, and the opportunity to windsurf or paddle with your pooch at the dog beach.
Safety first!
Before stepping foot near the water, please take the necessary steps to make your visit a water-safe one.
Review our water safety tips here.
