How To Get The Water & Exercise

Water exercise takes on a variety of shapes and forms. Swimming, water aerobics, water walking and aquatic therapy are all effective means of water exercise. Water exercise is a low impact --- no stress on your joints --- form of cardiovascular activity. Water exercise is often recommended for individuals with arthritis, those who suffer from knee pain and individuals recovering from traumatic injury. If you are not sure if water exercise is for you, there are plenty of facts out there. A little research and you can make an informed decision on whether or not to participate in water exercise.

Step 1

Talk to your doctor. If you are thinking about starting a water-based exercise program, ask your doctor for advice. Your doctor will be able to explain to you the benefits of a water-based program and if this type of exercise is right for you.

Step 2

Ask your physical therapist. If you are in therapy for an injury, talk to your physical therapist about the potential benefits of a water-based exercise program. The buoyancy of water can help to ease your pain. The resistance of water can make for a more challenging workout that otherwise may not be possible for you on dry land.

Step 3

Request information from the Arthritis Foundation. You can browse the arthritis foundation website or request brochures on water-based exercise programs be sent to you. The Arthritis Foundation indicates that water exercise can help reduce arthritis pain and stiffness, increase circulation, build strength and make performing daily tasks much easier.

Step 4

Read the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) water-based exercise benefits. The CDC indicates that swimming is the third most popular athletic activity among Americans. Swimming can reduce the risks of chronic illnesses and help to improve the health of individuals suffering from chronic conditions --- including diabetes and heart disease.

Step 5

Give it a try. Head to the pool or sign up for a class at your local gym. With the permission of your doctor, you can see first hand if water exercise is a good option for you.

Tips and Warnings

For water exercise to be an effective means of exercise, you will need to exercise regularly. The National Academy of Sports medicine indicates healthy adults should exercise 5 days per week for 30 minutes at a time.