Nothing cools you off quite like a dip in the pool. Yet, while
swimming is one of the best and most popular forms of exercise,
there are many other options for a refreshing aqua fitness workout.
Like resistance workouts, aqua aerobics, water walking and even the
new Latin-inspired "aqua zumba." Plus, since aqua fitness increases
cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, muscle strength and balance
in a fun and social way, it's quickly becoming a favorite among all
ages!
Almost everyone - from top athletes and dancers to people with
health issues, the elderly and even pregnant women - can enjoy the
benefits of aqua fitness. For starters, this form of exercise
doesn't require you to know how to swim. It's typically performed
in water that's only up to your waist or chest. What's more, aqua
fitness:
- Offers a variety of therapeutic benefits
Because of the effects of buoyancy, aqua fitness can be ideal for
individuals who are recovering from an illness or injury, or those
who are obese or unable to exercise effectively on land. In fact, a
person standing in chest-deep water is only taking on the burden of
10% of his or her body weight, causing less strain and stress on
joints and muscles. Water also gently massages the body as it moves
around the pool and tends to lower blood pressure rates.
- Reduces risk of injury
The buoyancy of water also slows down exercises. While this
reduced speed still benefits the body, it makes it much more
difficult to make a mistake that could lead to an injury. If you
fall in the water during aqua exercise, for instance, you're less
likely to get hurt.
- Burns calories
Aqua fitness allows you to exercise every muscle and joint in your
body at the same time. Plus, since water creates greater resistance
- 44 times greater! - than the air moving around outside the pool,
your body burns more calories both during and after a workout
session.
- Cools your body down
Of course, aqua fitness also offers the cooling benefits of water.
Without that hot and sweaty feeling, you may exercise longer and
get better results. Water can be especially good for those
recovering from ankle, knee, hip and back surgery as the cool
temperature minimizes postoperative swelling.
To optimize your aqua fitness regime, try visiting the pool
3-5 times a week - gradually increasing the
intensity of your workout - and be sure to use the right tools.
International Olympians and novice swimmers alike request NZ
Manufacturing StrechCordz®
resistance products. Our new StrechCordz Pool Aqua
Band - tested and approved by national instructors - can
be used for upper and lower extremities both in water and on
dryland. The StrechCordz Long
Belt Slider improves acceleration, strengthens finishes and
improves IM times. And, our StrechCordz Stationary Swim
Trainer helps with proper hip rotation and stroke
efficiency.
Whatever form of aqua fitness you try - always follow safety rules
for the water, use the buddy system and never swim or perform aqua
fitness alone. As with any exercise program, consult with your
health care provider before you begin.