Exercise is a key component of fitness and weight management. Aquatic exercises like swimming and water aerobics provide many benefits, including a reduced impact on joints. Understand the uses and benefits of water exercise therapy so that you can incorporate this healthy activity in your fitness program for maximum results.
Indications/Uses
Water exercise therapy is commonly recommended for patients with arthritis, osteoporosis or other conditions in which high-impact exercises like running could cause bone or joint damage. It is often used in physical therapy programs to help patients strengthen or regain use of affected body parts. Water exercise therapy is also well-suited for elderly people, who could suffer falls or other injuries when performing land exercises.
Benefits
Water exercise provides many unique benefits over regular aerobics. The increased resistance of water makes for an efficient workout while providing extra cushioning for joints. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, swimming can reduce disability and improve quality of life for older people. Additional benefits include improved bone health in postmenopausal women and decreased anxiety and depression in fibromyalgia patients. Arthritis patients who engage in water exercise often experience significant improvements in joint pain and function, according to the Arthritis Foundation.
Methods
Anyone can benefit from water exercise therapy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests a minimum of two-and-a-half hours per week of water exercise or another aerobic activity. Combine leg kicks, jumping jacks and other aerobic moves with swimming techniques like the breaststroke for a full-body workout. If desired, divide exercise periods into shorter intervals of 10 to 20 minutes apiece. Many gyms and health clubs offer water aerobics classes, swimming lessons and other types of aquatic activities for people of all fitness levels.
Safety Precautions
Observing proper safety precautions is vital for avoiding water-related injuries. Never drink alcohol before entering the water, and swim with a partner to prevent drowning. Warm up properly by stretching and performing other low-intensity exercises to prevent muscle and joint injury. Ask your doctor before beginning a water exercise therapy regimen if you suffer from a chronic condition like heart disease or diabetes.
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