Swimming and Diabetes

You are diabetic and want to swim. Can you?

Many people who have diabetes can swim. There are however a few things to consider before jumping in.

First and foremost, seek advice from your Doctor if swimming can be incorporated into your workouts. Did your Doctor say yes you can swim? Cool – that’s great news. Now let’s review special considerations with swimming.

When you arrive at the pool, take a minute and advise the lifeguard on duty that you have diabetes. In the event of an emergency, this can be very valuable information. If you wear a diabetes ID bracelet, do not remove it during the swim. Many swimmers remove jewelry however, the ID should be left on your wrist or if a necklace, around your neck.

As I talked about in the last blog, keep your feet protected! Wear shower sandals or similar in the locker room or pool side. When you are ready to leave the pool, take a minute and check your feet prior to placing on socks and shoes. Anything unusual (cuts/bruising etc.) should be reported to your Podiatrist immediately.

When you start a swim program, remember to pace yourself. Swimming for an extended period of time for example may bring on hypoglycemia. Rest breaks are important and making sure your blood sugar is monitored is important. I see diabetic swimmers at the pool with glucose pills or healthy snacks readily available during longer workouts. If you do wear an insulin pump, check with your Doctor prior to swimming to ensure proper care and instructions are taken.

Train smart with diabetes and you too can enjoy the benefits swimming has to offer.