9 Reasons We're Thankful for Swimming

As swimmers, we dedicate our whole lives to the sport. More times than not, heading to practice seems like a daily chore wedged into our routines. Swimming is the epitome of a love-hate relationship—one day you’re dreading it, the next day you’re excited to dive in (pun intended). Most swimmers will spend at least a fourth of their day swimming, talking about swimming or thinking about swimming—but what keeps us coming back?

In honor of the holiday season, we can’t help but feel a little extra thankful for the sport that keeps our lives afloat (literally). Here are the top 9 reasons why we are thankful for swimming;

1. The swimmer body—you don’t look like this by sitting on the couch.
2. For those mornings that it’s warmer in the water than it is outside the water—and for being able to make it out of bed on those cold mornings.
3. The ability to double your calorie intake and eat whatever you want, when you want it.
4. Coaches—we wouldn’t be here without them.
5. Teammates—we wouldn’t be sane without them.
6. Tapering—and having an excuse to not have to shave.
7. It teaches us to prioritize our time—it’s not easy juggling two-a-days, school, homework and a social life.
8. Although we could do without the tan-lines, we’re thankful for the year around tans.
9. It’s a lifetime sport.

What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving? Tell us in the comments below for a chance to win 3 festive, limited-edition Sporti Thanksgiving swim caps!