Need another option for some exercise as the warmer weather sets in? Water aerobics are a great low impact way to get in shape and enjoy the water. Many gyms include pools and offer water aerobics classes. Some city swimming pools also offer special hours set aside for adults only or seniors. Water is an excellent resistance tool with exercise moves. Since water flows in multiple directions, the resistance in the pool can range from four to 421 times greater than air, ensuring the body’s muscles get a rigid workout.
Here are some of the great benefits of water aerobics and/or exercises:
1. Water exercises are low impact. The buoyancy of the water helps take off some of the impact we tend to place on our body. Our body is not subject to gravity in the water, therefore the impact our joints take on when, say, running in water, is not equal to the impact when running on land. This is particularly appealing to those with joint conditions or undergoing physical rehabilitation.
2. Increase muscle strength. Regular exercise in the water with the resistance will help make significant gains in strength, flexibility, and agility.
3. Build endurance. With the lack of gravity with pushing and pulling, water resistance is more natural and requires the body to strain through it rather than against it.
4. Alleviates pressure on the joints. Hydrotherapy is shown to be the leading form of therapy for those suffering from joint problems.
5. Relieves stress and decrease anxiety. Watching water and being in the water can be one of the most soothing activities one can take part in to help relieve stress.
6. Burns calories. The combination of strength and cardio workouts mixed with water resistance in aquatic exercise ensures the body is getting a full workout.
7. Reduces blood pressure. Water resistance is not just a buoyancy feature to help work the muscles. The water pressure actually works with your blood as well and enables one’s blood flow to circulate more effectively throughout the body. This effectively decreases the blood pressure and, in the long run, decreases resting heart rate.
So do some research and see if there is a pool in your area that offers water aerobics classes and/or special times for adult swimming. Everyone can benefit from water exercises and who doesn’t want to jump in a cool swimming pool when the summer heat arrives!
