Although water aerobics is generally considered a senior citizen workout, this form of exercise actually provides a variety of health benefits to people of all ages and activity levels. Inside the pool, the warm water works to support your body and provide resistance against your movements. A water aerobics class is generally a good workout for the heart, muscles, joints and mind.
Identification
A water aerobics workout is, quite simply, an aerobics class performed in a swimming pool. Performed in either shallow or deep water, a water aerobics class typically involves walking, jogging, jumping jacks, a variety of kicks and knee lifts, among several other moves.
Aerobic Benefits
Since a water aerobics class keeps the body moving and the heart rate increased, the class provides significant cardiovascular benefits. In fact, the Health Care Center website explains that a 45-minute class can burn between 350 and 600 calories. When compared to traditional land exercises, walking and jogging in the water burns significantly more calories per session. Additionally, since the water movements are less stressful on the body, most people can workout for longer in the water. When combined with a healthy diet, a regular water aerobics class can contribute to successful weight loss.
Muscles Worked
A water aerobics class provides an effective workout for nearly every muscle and every joint in the body. As your body moves, the water constantly resists your movements. As a result, your muscles must work harder to push against the resistance. In fact, MyOptumHealth.com explains that "moving in water requires 12 to 14 times more muscle resistance than land exercise." To increase the intensity of the workout, you might also use water barbells, foam cylinders or kickboards.
Individual Needs
A significant advantage of water aerobics is that the workout can be easily customized to meet individual needs. People who are new to exercise should have no difficulties performing the simple movements of a water aerobics class. Participants looking for an advanced workout can add ankle or wrist weights to make the movements more challenging. Additionally, water aerobic is a non-weight-bearing exercise, making it an ideal option for people with arthritis and osteoporosis, pregnant women, the elderly and anyone suffering from hip, knee or ankle problems. MyOptumHealth.com explains that water aerobics is commonly recommended by doctors and physical therapists for physical therapy patients.
Considerations
Participants who cannot swim well should wear a flotation device during a water aerobics class. If you feel uncomfortable in the water, start with a water aerobics class in shallow water. As your comfort level grows, you may eventually transition to a class in deep water. To ensure safety, never practice water aerobics alone. Also, as with any type of exercise, it is important to consult your physician before attempting a new workout routine.
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