Water aerobics is a popular method of physical rehabilitation, particularly for those coming off of knee and ankle injuries. These exercises help people regain control and build strength in the area of injury. But did you know that water aerobics is also a popular exercise method for healthy individuals?
How Water Aerobics Works
Water aerobics are special exercises done while the body is partially submerged in water. These exercises are most often done in pools, where the relatively calm water and varying depths allow a wide variety of exercises to be done. The main advantage of water exercises is that water supports the individual’s weight, but adds resistance to movement at the same time.
Exercising in a pool means the individual carries less weight on the legs, especially on the ankles and knees. (Some hip injuries may also be rehabbed with water aerobics.) Working out in the water is also ideal for sufferers of arthritis and multiple sclerosis.
But as mentioned, water aerobics are no longer just for rehab. More and more fitness aficionados are realizing that water exercises are a great alternative to slaving away at the gym. Today, people of all ages troop to pools for all types of water exercises.
Examples Of Water Aerobics Exercises
One of the most basic water exercises is to simply wade in waist-deep water and take large strides forward. The aim is to work against the water resistance and move forward as quickly as safely possible. This simple exercise builds leg strength very quickly.
Leg stretching is also a simple exercise that beginners can try. While in neck-deep water, swing a leg forward, backward, or to the sides (while holding the edge of the pool). Alternate legs, and kick as high as you can each time. Just be careful about slipping.
Finally, another simple exercise is treading water. You can go to the deep end of the pool so that your feet don’t touch the floor anymore, and simply tread with your arms or legs to keep your head above water. This quickly builds strength and endurance in your arms or legs, depending on which you work out.
What You Need For Water Aerobics
If you’re not comfortable around the deep end, feel free to use floaters. Better safe than sorry! Floaters are essential for individuals who can’t swim very well. You may also need other pieces of equipment, such as aquatic shoes, which help grip the floor of the pool better and provide extra balance.
Later on, as you progress through more and more difficult water aerobics routines, you can start bringing other equipment into the mix. Aquatic weights, kickboards, and beach balls all add resistance to movement, so you can keep ramping up the intensity for your exercises — all while staying cool in a pool.
Perfect For Summer
Water aerobics is definitely worth a try if you don’t like exercising in the hot sun or sweating through a stuffy gym. With water aerobics, you can recover from injuries, build muscle and endurance, and stay cool all at the same time.
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