Water aerobics transfers an important form of exercise to an environment that allows for broader participation. Aerobic activity moves the body's large muscles for a sustained length of time and improves cardio-respiratory health, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Aerobic activities include swimming, running, walking and bicycling. Water provides a low-impact and engaging environment for aerobic activity. Water aerobics lessons can benefit people of all ages and capabilities.
Combination Lessons
Many aerobics lessons combine several types of exercises to provide a more challenging workout that takes advantage of the benefits of water exercise. The Gurnee Park District aquatics program in Illinois offers a Hydro Fit class which uses aerobic and strength-training exercises interspersed with modified Pilates moves and deep-water exercise. Hydro Flex Aerobics, lessons offered by the Ft. Lauderdale Aquatic Complex, combine cardio exercise, upper body weight lifting and exercise activities using water noodles for a one-hour aerobic lesson.
Water Running
Sports and rehabilitation centers recommend water running as a low-impact activity that uses the resistance of the water to burn energy and strengthen muscles. You can move at your own pace in water running, but for an aerobic activity, the pace is usually fast and the running is performed in deep water, often with aqua belts. The Ft. Lauderdale Aquatic Complex offers a water running lesson for those who want the benefits of running without the impact of doing it on land.
Aqua Zumba
Water aerobics lessons use the benefits of low-impact exercise to include exercise routines, such as Zumba dance moves, that might be inappropriate for special populations in standard environments. You can have fun with music and dance moves in the water while participating in an aerobic activity. The Meadowland YMCA in New Jersey offers Aqua Zumba as an aerobic water lesson for all ages and for non-swimmers.
Special Group Lessons
Seniors and people with medical conditions who participate in water aerobics experience less stress on their bones, joints and muscles. Water aerobics lessons for special groups often focus on therapeutic and rehabilitative efforts, such as strengthening, increasing range of motion, improving flexibility and alleviating the symptoms of medical conditions like arthritis. Meadowland YMCA's Senior Aqua Exercise provides a 30-minute lesson designed to benefit seniors or people with chronic pain or physical limitations.
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