**Boise's Baths: City Chlorine Burning Youthful Fats?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe shimmering turquoise of the local Boise municipal pool beckons on a sweltering summer day. But beyond the refreshing dip, could those laps be secretly contributing to your weight loss goals? The answer, while not a resounding “yes,” is more nuanced than you might think. Let’s dive into the science, the chlorine, and how Boiseans can make the most of their pool time.
Chlorine absorption is the first hurdle to address. The idea that you’re significantly absorbing chlorine through your skin and that this absorption directly impacts your metabolism is largely a myth. While some chlorine can be absorbed, the amount is minimal and unlikely to have any measurable effect on fat burning. The primary concern with chlorine is its impact on skin and hair, not its metabolic effects.
Swimming, however, does burn calories. The amount depends on several factors: your weight, swimming intensity, and stroke. A 150-pound person swimming freestyle at a moderate pace for 30 minutes can burn around 200-300 calories. This is comparable to brisk walking or cycling. Boise’s pools, like the South Boise YMCA or the Borah Pool, offer structured swim programs and open swim times, providing ample opportunity to get a workout.
Now, let’s talk about the real downside: chlorine’s effect on your hair and skin. Chlorine strips away natural oils, leading to dryness, itchiness, and even damage. For Boise residents, where the climate is already relatively dry, this can exacerbate existing skin conditions like eczema. Hair can become brittle, prone to breakage, and develop a greenish tint, especially for those with lighter hair.
So, how can Boise swimmers mitigate these effects? Here’s a practical, step-by-step guide:
Pre-Swim Shower and Hair Wetting: This is crucial. Saturating your hair and skin with clean water before entering the pool minimizes the amount of chlorinated water they can absorb. The Boise City Department of Parks and Recreation provides showers at all its municipal pools; use them!
Protective Hair Products: Apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil specifically designed for swimmers. Look for products containing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or dimethicone. These create a barrier against chlorine. A popular choice is the TriSwim Pre & Post Swim Conditioner.
Swim Cap: A well-fitting swim cap is your best defense against chlorine damage to your hair. Silicone caps are generally more effective than latex caps. Make sure the cap covers your entire hairline.
Post-Swim Shower – The Right Way: Don’t just rinse off. Use a swimmer’s shampoo and body wash specifically formulated to remove chlorine. These products contain ingredients that neutralize chlorine and help restore moisture. Look for brands like Ultra Swim or Malibu C.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize: After showering, apply a rich moisturizer to your skin while it’s still damp. Look for products containing hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or shea butter. For hair, use a deep conditioner or hair mask once or twice a week.
Hydration is Key: Chlorine can dehydrate you from the inside out. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your swim.
Consider Vitamin C: Some studies suggest that Vitamin C can neutralize chlorine. You can find Vitamin C shower filters that attach to your showerhead and help remove chlorine from your shower water.
A common mistake is thinking that a quick rinse after swimming is enough. It’s not. Chlorine continues to react with your skin and hair even after you leave the pool. Another pitfall is using regular shampoo and body wash, which can further strip away natural oils.
Let’s be realistic: swimming in Boise’s municipal pools won’t magically melt away fat due to chlorine absorption. However, swimming is an excellent form of exercise that can contribute to weight loss when combined with a healthy diet. By taking proactive steps to protect your skin and hair from chlorine’s drying effects, you can enjoy the benefits of swimming without the unwanted side effects. So, grab your swim cap, head to the nearest Boise pool, and make a splash – responsibly. Remember to check the Boise Parks and Recreation website for pool schedules and availability.