Jumping in the pool is probably the last thing on most people's minds when they think of getting rid of belly fat. However, pool exercises can be some of the most effective in burning fat in general, including your belly area. Since spot reduction isn't possible, you need to burn fat from your whole body to see weight loss from your belly, but several pool exercises, not just one, can help you accomplish this task.
Cardiovascular Workouts
One key to losing fat from anywhere on your body is exercising regularly. Specifically, you need cardiovascular exercise to burn calories, which results in weight loss. In the pool, you can simply swim laps using whatever stroke you prefer to burn calories. Of course, you may also need to follow a reduced-calorie diet if you want to have noticeable weight loss.
Walking Sprint Intervals
Another pool exercise you can do to get your heart rate up and lose belly fat is sprint intervals. These are performed by walking in the pool, not swimming. You begin by walking through the water to one side of the pool then sprinting back. The resistance of the water makes your muscles work harder and burns more calories than walking or sprinting on land. Plus, the effort of lifting your legs tones your abdominal muscles, which is important for a slim tummy once you burn off the fat.
Jump Bursts
Jump bursts use your leg and core muscles to propel you out of the water. When performed vigorously, these act as a cardiovascular workout. Squat in the pool with your arms at your sides then push off the bottom and leap up out of the water with your arms raised. Land back in a squat. Repeat, jumping across the pool as many times as you can.
Duration
You need at least 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise five times a week to stay healthy and from 60 to 90 minutes per session to burn enough calories to lose weight. If you are new to exercise, start with 15 minutes or whatever you feel comfortable with and slowly increase the duration as you gain strength and endurance.
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