More than 60 percent of American adults are obese or overweight. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, only about 15 percent of adults in the United States exercise regularly, despite the overwhelming evidence that physical activity plays an enormous role in maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risks of obesity-associated medical complications. Finding a safe, enjoyable exercise helps to promote regular participation and water aerobics may be a key for many obese women.
Hand Weights
Hand weights designed to use in the pool typically are covered with water-resistant foam. They usually weigh about 1 to 2 pounds and are an ideal first step in building muscle in obese women. Aquatic dumbbells increase resistance to promote effective toning and muscle building. They also can help to increase endurance as women can walk while holding the weights below the water or perform lifting routines.
Kickboard
A kickboard can provide upper body support to continue with kicking techniques for extended periods of time. Duration is an important factor when considering an exercise program to lose weight. Kickboards also relieve your aching joints while you remain in the water. Even when you're standing in water, your joints only absorb between 80 and 95 percent of your body weight. A kickboard takes off even more of that weight, ideal for women with arthritis or osteoporosis, common ailments among obese elderly women.
Flotation Belt
A flotation belt may function as a safety net for women who don't know how to swim or who have been inactive for a long time. The belt easily adjusts to fit around the midsection and can help to keep you stable and afloat as you gain your bearing in the water. A flotation belt also frees you up to perform various arm and leg exercises without fear of falling. Beginners and intermediate swimmers alike can benefit from a flotation belt.
Significance
As you begin to lose weight and become more comfortable in the water, you should look for more intense exercises to beef up your weight loss efforts. Swim fins can help you move quicker through the water and reach aerobic levels more easily. Swim fins slip over the feet and provide long, webbed extensions that also work your leg muscles more efficiently.
Member Comments