What Makes Water Aerobics Exercise Beneficial?

Water aerobics benefit all ages at any fitness level. Because the body is buoyant, injuries and pounding of the joints are reduced or eliminated. Most healthy people can partake in any type of aerobics class. However, if you are pregnant, have any health conditions or any concerns, you may need to be more selective regarding the type of water aerobics you choose.

Types

Basic water aerobics is the most common type of water aerobics. Basic movements are done in waist or chest-high water with low to moderate intensity. You can choose a deep water aerobics class where a buoyancy belt is worn to prevent sinking. Some fitness facilities offer specialty water aerobics classes for the obese, elderly, pregnant, handicapped or injured persons.

Benefits

Anybody at any age can participate in basic water aerobics. Swimmers and non-swimmers are able to participate because the entire body is never submerged under water. Deep water aerobics do not allow the feet to touch the bottom of the pool. This can give beginners, as well as elite athletes, a quality workout because the entire body is buoyant--floating. Water creates a resistance while walking--unlike walking on land. You can also use water weights for resistance to build muscle tone. Plus, there is a smaller risk of injuries during a water aerobics class compared to land aerobics.

Time Frame

Water aerobics exercise can be performed for the same amount of time as land aerobics, at any age. The American College of Sports Medicine, ACSM, recommends 20 to 60 minutes of physical activity. Water aerobics classes can last for 30 minutes or more. The ACSM, as well as the American Cancer Society say an elderly exercise program should provide the proper amount of physical activity to attain a maximum benefit at the lowest risk. "All older people should be up and moving seven days a week," states Atlanta-based fitness trainer Ulrick Bien-Aime. Low-intensity water aerobics exercise can be safely done up to seven days a week, just like walking.

Effects

Water aerobics done in a heated pool can have a profound effect on arthritic patients. The Arthritis Foundation reports that water is the ideal environment for relieving arthritis pain and stiffness. It is noted that participants enjoy the gentle activities in warm water, with guidance from a trained instructor, and experience decreased pain and stiffness. Prenatal women have positive effects from water aerobics as well. Prenatal water aerobics classes allow the mother to exercise without the weight of the baby adding pressure on her knees or lower back. The U.S. National Library of Medicine notes a study that concluded water aerobics diminished pregnancy-related low back pain more than a land-based physical exercise program. The study also states, "Water aerobics can be recommended for the treatment of low back pain during pregnancy."

Warning

Preexisting health conditions are always a concern--even during water aerobics. High blood pressure, vertigo, or dizziness, asthma or any other condition that may affect cardiovascular exercise should be discussed with your doctor and water aerobics instructor before joining a water aerobics class. Not all water aerobics instructors have fitness certifications or health-related degrees. Therefore, sometimes their workouts may not be suitable for your age or health condition.