Water Aerobic Exercises With Swim Boards

If you are bored with running or jogging but you don't enjoy working out at the gym either, then maybe it's time to give water aerobics a try. Exercising in the water is not only a fun change of pace, it is easier on the joints than high-impact activities and a safe option for people recovering from injury. And no matter how hard you work your body, you'll never break a sweat.

Basics

There are several factors to keep in mind when doing any type of water aerobic activity with a swim board. The pool you work out in should be no deeper than the height of your shoulders. Keep your core muscles tight throughout all exercises. Although it may be tempting to hold your breath while doing any type of water work, make sure to breathe properly no matter what drills you are performing. And always keep your spine in a straight, neutral position.

Walking

Using a swim board as a resistance tool can increase muscle strength and tone up arms and legs. Even an activity as simple as walking in the pool can work wonders, especially when a board is involved. Stand in the water and hold the board up against your chest. Slowly walk forward with the board still held up. Begin by walking for 30 seconds and as you get stronger, try work your way up to 45 to 60.

Arm Work

Stand in the pool with your legs about shoulder-width apart. Straighten out your right arm and wrap it around the back of the swim board, grasping it on the far side. Cross your left arm in front of you and hold the other end, keeping your left elbow against your body. Slowly move the board out in front of you, creating an arc-type movement in the water. Continue until the board is straight ahead and then return it to the starting position. Repeat this drill 12 to 15 times and repeat on the other side.

Chest Exercises

If you are trying to work your pectoral muscles, this simple exercise will do the trick. Hold the board up close to your chest, with your elbows bent next to your body. Straighten out your arms ahead of you, pushing it through the water. Bring it back to the starting position. Next, lower the board downward, keeping it as close to your body as possible. Pull the board back up. You can alternate these movements as explained here or perform a continuous set of forward pushes or downward thrusts.