If you want to get fit but don't like getting sweaty, head to the pool for a workout. Water offers natural resistance to give your muscles an extra push while going easy on your joints. If you're tired of the usual crunches, pool exercises offer an alternative way to firm abdominal muscles so you can look your best in that swimming suit.
Take a Walk
You can work your abdominal muscles and help strengthen your spine by simply walking through the water as fast as you can, according to RippedSixPackAbs.com. Resistance from the water gives your abs a workout without the strain and effort it takes to do an abdominal crunch on dry land. While walking in the water is a gentle approach to begin working your abs, it can be effective. As you get stronger and faster, try breaking into a run or darting from one leg to the other.
Leg Lifts
Inch-Aweigh recommends an ab workout that's a bit tougher. Start by standing in the pool with your back against the side. Rest your elbows on the rim of the pool. Without bending your knees, slowly bring both legs up to a sitting position. Hold them in place for 10 seconds. Don't forget to breathe while you're holding your legs in position. Bend at the knee to bring your legs back down, and repeat as many times as you can. It's important to keep your back straight during this exercise.
K-Tread
This exercise targets your abs, as well as your arms, back, chest, buttocks and hamstrings, according to FitnessMagazine.com. Go to the deep end and tread water, making small circles with your cupped hands. Lift one leg in front of you to hip level while reaching toward the bottom of the pool with the toes of your other foot. Hold this position for five seconds, then quickly switch legs. Continue for 30 seconds, alternating legs
Otter Roll
The otter roll targets your back, buttocks and legs, along with your abdominal muscles, according to FitnessMagazine.com. This exercise requires a beach ball. Hug the ball close to your chest while floating on your back. With your legs extended and your feet together, roll to one side over the top of the ball. Use your entire body to make a complete revolution back to your starting position. Take a breath, then roll to the other side. Continue for 30 seconds as you alternate the direction of the roll.
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