Aqua aerobics, or water aerobics, is a nonimpact form of cardio exercise. "Aerobics" are simply exercises that elevate your heart rate and oxygen intake. Aerobics can be painful or hard on the joints for some people, especially when performing exercises in high-impact and step classes. Aqua aerobics is an beneficial and fun exercise option for all ages, including if you are unable to do aerobics on land.
Buoyancy
Due to the buoyancy of water, your body weight is reduced by up to 90 percent when you are in water up to your chest, which takes stress off your joints and connective tissue, according to ShapeFit.com. If you stand in water even just up to your waist, your body weight is reduce 50 percent. Pregnant women, arthritis sufferers, people who are overweight and individuals with recent injuries may benefit from aqua aerobics.
Water Resistance
Instead of using weights, you get resistance from the water as you exercise. Simply cupping your hands and moving your arms through the water creates resistance. Get additional resistance from equipment such as paddles and water chutes. The all-around resistance of water aerobics has muscle-strengthening potential in all directions.
Calories Burned
Doing aerobics in water burns fewer calories than aerobics on land. On average, heart rate during water aerobics is 17 beats per minute slower than regular aerobics, according to the American Council on Exercise. However, that doesn't mean aqua aerobics doesn't burn calories. According to MayoClinic.com, a 200-lb. person burns 364 calories per hour doing aqua aerobics, which is 91 calories fewer than during low-impact aerobics.
Cooling
Exercising in water has a built-in cooling mechanism: the water itself. Although a fan in the display of an elliptical trainer helps you stay cool as you work out, a small fan is nothing compared to a pool. For people who get overheated quickly from regular exercise, aqua aerobics is an avenue worth exploring.
Other Benefits
Aqua aerobics can also improve your balance and posture, according to ShapeFit.com. The ability to perform stretches you might otherwise be unable to do is another benefit of exercising in water. You can take your joints through a greater range of motion in a pool than on land.
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