Why You Might Feel Sleepy after a Swim

Swimming is a refreshing, invigorating activity that can also be a great way to get some exercise in a less demanding and more enjoyable way. For some people, though, swimming has another effect: an increased level of fatigue after getting out of the water. Keep reading to gain some insights into why you may feel a bit sleepy after swimming. We also offer some tips on what you can do to reduce your post-swimming fatigue.

You Use More Energy in Cold Water

One of the more common reasons you may feel sleepy after swimming is because of the cold water that’s in most pools. If you swim for a while, your body has to use more energy to maintain your core temperature to compensate for the cold pool water—whether you swim in a traditional pool or a saltwater pool—which reduces your internal temperature. This added expenditure of energy to keep you sufficiently warm inside can make you feel fatigued.

Warming Up Can Make You Drowsy

Some of the things you do to warm up again after getting out of a cold pool could also contribute to your sleepiness. For example, if you have a tendency to sip a nice warm cup of coffee or have some hot soup or stew to warm up after swimming, you might be tired from the digestion process.

Even Heated Pools Can Make You Sleepy

If you have a heated pool or usually swim in one, you may still feel tired after you’re done swimming. In this case, the reason is a process known as vasodilation. This is when your blood vessels dilate so the blood can flow closer to your skin’s surface. What this does is allow you to cool down as heat is released. It’s another internal process that uses up more energy, and this could also make you feel tired.

Your Swimming Routine Is Another Factor

One other reason you may feel sleepy after swimming is if you normally do a more demanding or involved routine when in the pool. Even though the water eases stress on your body, doing multiple laps can use up a lot of energy. This is the same reason it’s common to feel tired after exercising on dry land.

There Are Ways to Minimize Post-Swimming Fatigue

There’s nothing wrong with taking a little nap if you feel tired after swimming. But if you prefer to minimize or reduce your level of post-swimming fatigue, there are some things you can do. One option is to swim earlier in the day after having a protein-rich breakfast. What this does is give your metabolism a boost so you’ll have more energy to offset the added energy expenditure associated with swimming. You may also be less tired after swimming by:

• Splitting up your swimming routine into more than one session so you’re not overexerting yourself
• Getting a good night’s sleep so you’ll be well rested when you swim
• Having an energy bar or drink after you’re done swimming to get an added energy boost to offset fatigue

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