Volume 15, Issue 10 · IJARST · ISSN 2319-1783 / 2320-1126

Physiological Adaptations to Swimming and Aquatic Exercise: Critical Review

Physiological Adaptations to Swimming and Aquatic Exercise: Critical Review is an open-access, peer-reviewed research paper by Udaykumar Madar and Dr. V. Murugu Valavan, published in Volume 15, Issue 10 of the International Journal of Advanced Research in Science and Technology (IJARST), a UGC-approved journal (Print ISSN 2319-1783, Online ISSN 2320-1126).

Author

Udaykumar Madar and Dr. V. Murugu Valavan

Abstract

Background: Swimming and aquatic exercise expose the body to buoyancy, hydrostatic pressure, resistance and a distinct thermal environment. These conditions may influence cardiovascular, metabolic and functional adaptations. Objective: To critically examine the adult evidence linking aquatic exercise with multisystem health outcomes while distinguishing swimming from upright water exercise. Methods: A critical narrative review was developed from the supplied literature set. Targeted checks of publisher and bibliographic records were used to correct study identities and assess selected findings. Evidence was organised by exercise mode, design, population and outcome; no pooled effect was calculated. Results: Selected controlled swimming trials reported improved endothelial function and blood pressure. A twelve-month comparison in older women found lower body weight and selected cholesterol measures with swimming than walking. Upright aquatic programmes provided additional evidence on aerobic fitness, strength and functional capacity. However, physiological responses differed across exercise modes, and statistical significance within one training group did not establish superiority over another. Evidence for a consistent rise in resting metabolic rate, uniform lipid improvement and stroke-specific benefits was insufficient. Conclusion: Aquatic exercise offers a useful setting for health-related training, with promising vascular, fitness and functional outcomes in selected adult populations. The magnitude and generalisability of benefits depend on programme design and participant characteristics. Larger controlled trials should report environmental conditions, exercise dose and between-group effects.

Keywords: Swimming; aquatic exercise; environmental physiology; vascular function; metabolic health; functional capacity

DOI: https://doi.org/10.62226/ijarst20262865

 

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DOI

10.62226/ijarst20262865

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How do you cite this paper?

Udaykumar Madar and Dr. V. Murugu Valavan — “Physiological Adaptations to Swimming and Aquatic Exercise: Critical Review.” International Journal of Advanced Research in Science and Technology (IJARST), Volume 15, Issue 10. DOI: 10.62226/ijarst20262865.

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