Beat the Heat: Top Swimming Spots and Cool Tips for Michiganders

Beat the Heat: Top Swimming Spots and Cool Tips for Michiganders

“Swimming offers numerous health benefits and it’s a family fun activity for all ages. Plus, it is a great way to get out and get healthy this summer,” said Dr. Doug Lynes, DC (Doctor of Chiropractic), a member of the Michigan Chiropractors Association’s Public Education Committee.

According to The New York Times, a recent Columbia University analysis highlights that finding ways to stay cool is more important than ever due to a significant rise in local summer temperatures across the Northern Hemisphere.

This summer, embrace the warm weather by exploring Michigan’s spectacular swimming spots and following these tips to stay cool and hydrated. Whether you prefer a quiet inland lake, the bustling shores of Lake Michigan, or a public pool in your hometown, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you to dive in and beat the heat.

Stay Cool With These Tips

Here are some practical tips and top swimming destinations to help you stay refreshed this summer.

Top Tips to Stay Cool This Summer

  • Explore Water Activities: Visit Michigan’s parks with lakes or pools for water-based fun.
  • Stay Hydrated: Keep water handy to prevent heat-related illnesses like heat stroke, heat exhaustion, etc. 
  • Use Public Cooling Places: Seek public places with air conditioning to hang out at.
  • Wear Sunscreen: The FDA recommends using broad-spectrum sunscreens with an SPF value of 15 or higher regularly to protect your skin and help you stay cool.
  • Find Shade: Enjoy natural shade to escape direct sunlight.
    •  

Why Swimming is Good for You

During Michigan’s blazing summers, swimming is a great way to cool off from the sun and get active. It allows longer exercise durations without increasing joint or muscle pain, making it especially beneficial for individuals with arthritis and osteoarthritis by improving joint use and reducing pain without worsening symptoms. 

Top Swimming Spots in Michigan

Michigan is renowned for its stunning lakes and beaches, making it a paradise for swimmers and water enthusiasts. Here are some must-visit swimming spots across the state:

Inland Lakes

  • Lake Michigamme (Michigamme)
  • Big Manistique Lake (Curtis)
  • Lake Charlevoix (Charlevoix, Boyne City, and East Jordan)
  • Lake Leelanau (Leland and Cedar)
  • Torch Lake (Elk Rapids, Alden, and Bellaire)
  • Higgins Lake (Roscommon)
  • Black Lake (Cheboygan and Presque Isle Counties)
  • Lake St. Clair (Mount Clemens)
  • Pontiac Lake (Waterford)
  • Gull Lake (Augusta)
  • Kalamazoo Lake (Saugatuck and Douglas)
  • Silver Lake (Mears)
  • Reeds Lake (Grand Rapids)
  • Muskegon Lake (Muskegon)

Lake Michigan Beaches

  • Muskegon
  • Holland
  • South Haven
  • St. Joseph
  • Grand Haven
  • Saugatuck

City Pools in Michigan

If you can’t get to a beach or a lake, there are numerous public pools across the state for individuals and families to utilize this summer. Check your nearest school district or city to see a list of pools located near you. Also, you can check out the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lake, and Energy for an extensive list of pools.

Former Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps used chiropractic care throughout his career. Photo Author: Agência Brasil Fotografias.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Swimmers

Many professional athletes have been vocal about their use of chiropractic care throughout their careers. Olympic Swimmer Michael Phelps is one of them.

Swimming is a great way to work out your whole body because it uses little force and improves your overall health, flexibility, and strength. Repetitive motions and poor technique can lead to injuries such as swimmer’s shoulder, neck, back, hip, and knee pain. Chiropractic care can help prevent and treat these injuries by addressing skeletal misalignments, muscle imbalances, and lack of flexibility. 

Find many other free outdoor activities and ways to get active in Michigan here.

Sources: CDC, Michigan.gov, The New York Times, Dynamic Sports Medicine