Water Aerobics

Aerobic exercises in shallow water to develop resistance: this is the essence of water aerobics. Besides the regular benefits of intense physical activity, there are some great things about working out in water:

-there is a lower risk of joint or muscle injury;
-the range of motion is larger;
-the stress on joints is minimum because the body floats in the water which reduces the impact of gravitation;
-you can avoid overheating as the body is kept cool.

You don't have to be a great swimmer to participate to water aerobics. A session usually lasts for 40 to 45 minutes and it takes place in a spa or a swimming pool. You will expend a lot of energy during a water aerobics session because of the water resistance. Otherwise, the speed of the movements is greatly reduced. In this context, a session of water aerobics can easily be compared to weight training or jogging. You'll work so hard that you'll notice that you sweat even in water.

While with regular aerobics, there may be age limitations, this restriction does not apply to water aerobics. We find the explanation for this wide suitability to all group ages in the lack of stress put on joints and muscles. In water aerobics, exercises are non-weight, and the water resistance makes it safe for physical rehabilitation training. Orthopedic patients as well as injured athletes can benefit from the many therapeutic advantages that come with water aerobics.

However, it is usually important to see a physician and find out whether a water aerobics exercise program is good for your health or not. This is the must-follow procedure for anyone who suffers from chronic disease or some other health issue. Special measures ought to be taken for diabetes patients who need to wear a bracelet or a necklace for identification. You should also make sure that the water temperature is optimal for caloric expenditure, because this is not always the case with swimming pools.

It is preferable to go to an indoor pool for water aerobics exercises: lakes and ponds will not usually do. The warming up can be performed at the side of the pool. For your safety, you should not perform the water aerobics exercises alone. Drink lots of water before, during and after training so as to avoid dehydration and stick to the safety rules of swimming. If you can't swim, there are floatation devices that still allow you to perform water aerobics routines and enjoy the benefits of such exercises.