by It can be difficult to keep up with your workout routine in the scorching summer heat. But what if we told you that instead of sweating it out in a crowded gym, you can find yourself floating in a pool while burning calories. Sounds pretty magical, doesn’t it? Well, that’s exactly what water aerobics is: a delicious pool exercise experience that combines the joy of water play with a full body workout. But aquatic exercises are not just about fun and games. It is a very effective form of exercise that has a huge impact on physical fitness. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of water aerobics.
In the fitness world, water aerobics has gained popularity due to its many benefits. This low impact exercise combines the resistance and buoyancy of water to provide a refreshing and effective workout. It is mistakenly believed that water aerobics is reserved for the elderly. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or someone looking for a gentle exercise routine, water aerobics offers many benefits for all fitness levels.
What is aqua aerobics?
Water aerobics, also known as water aerobics or aquatic fitness, is a form of exercise performed in water, usually in a swimming pool. It combines cardiovascular activities, strength training and flexibility exercises to provide a complete workout. Participants are typically required to take part in a water aerobics class where they stand in water up to their waists or even deeper, and instructors guide them through various exercises to the beat of energetic music.
The exercises involved in water aerobics can vary. But they usually include moves like water walking or jogging, jumping jacks, leg kicks, arm curls, and core exercises. Additionally, equipment such as foam dumbbells, pool noodles, and water resistance bands can be used to add resistance and intensify the workout.
Health benefits of water aerobics
1. Increased resistance
Water resistance is a natural form of resistance training, which helps build muscle without the need for heavy weights. As you move through the water, your muscles work harder, improving both strength and endurance. Resistance also helps improve cardiovascular fitness by engaging large muscle groups, leading to an effective total body workout. A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research demonstrated that water aerobics exercises using resistance equipment increased muscle strength and power in young women.
2. Low impact on joints
One of the main advantages of water aerobics is its low impact. The buoyancy of the water reduces pressure on your joints, making it an ideal exercise for people with arthritis, joint pain, or those recovering from injury. A study published in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation compared the effects of land and water exercises on pain reduction and physical function in people with knee osteoarthritis. The results showed that aquatic exercises significantly reduced pain and improved physical function. Water aerobics allows you to engage in a challenging workout without putting undue stress on your body.
Also Read: Do You Have Arthritis? These exercises can help you deal with knee pain
3. Improved flexibility and range of motion
The buoyancy of the water supports your body, allowing greater freedom of movement. Water aerobics helps increase flexibility and range of motion, promoting better joint mobility and reducing the risk of injury. Regular participation in water aerobics activities can help improve overall flexibility, making it easier to perform daily activities.
4. Reduced impact on the cardiovascular system
According to a study published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine, water aerobics improved cardiovascular fitness and reduced blood pressure in people with hypertension. Water aerobics is a great way to improve cardiovascular health without putting undue strain on the heart. The buoyancy of water helps maintain optimal blood flow and reduces the risk of high impact injuries associated with activities like running or jumping. The rhythmic movements involved in water aerobics help strengthen the heart, improve circulation and lower blood pressure.
5. Improved balance and coordination
Water aerobics challenges your balance and coordination due to the resistance provided by water. The need to stabilize yourself in the face of moving water engages core muscles, promoting better balance and overall body control. These benefits extend beyond the pool and can help prevent falls and improve performance in other physical activities.
Dive into the pool, enjoy the resistance of the water and discover the wonderful benefits that water aerobics has to offer!
