Getting in the Swim of Things, Part Three

TIPS ON SAFE SWIMMING

* Don't swim alone.

* Never swim after drinking alcohol.

* Try to swim when a lifeguard is on duty or near a person who knows CPR.

* Learn to swim with private or group lessons at a community center or health club.

BENEFITS OF SWIMMING

* Swimming is good for rehabilitation after surgery, weight loss and relaxation.

* Swimming works all the muscles and gives similar results to walking or running, without adding stress to knees, ankles, legs and the back.

* Swimming is a low-impact exercise that's even suitable for pregnant women, experts say.

* The near weightless feeling of being in the water helps strengthen shoulders and abdominal muscles.

* Swimming strengthens the heart, which improves delivery of oxygen to muscles.

* Swimming helps decrease problems associated with diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure and allergies.