How You May Benefit From Water Aerobics

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How You May Benefit From Water Aerobics

Doing water aerobics can be a fun way to get fit. It is for people of all ages and yes it is a real work out. The heart rate goes up and the muscles do more work than they normally would. While the body becomes more toned and the muscles gain more strength, there is low to no impact on the joints. The only thing needed is a swimsuit. The work out is done in water that may new waist high, chest high or neck high. This will depend on if it is beginners or advanced and what the intensity of the work out is.

Water aerobics are exercises that are non weight bearing. This means the deeper you are in the water the more your body weight is supported. Gravity is having very little effect on your body and you feel weightless. You can run in the pool without the jarring and jolts to your joints and the possible damage it may cause to your knees. If you are already injured, have back pain, or aching joints being in the water will allow you to exercise without the stress of gravity. There is a natural buoyancy with exercising in water. If you are in water up to your neck this means that 90% of your body weight is being supported by it.

As with any aerobic exercise it will help you burn fat and lose weight. It will increase your heart rate although it is at a steady and lowered rate. You may burn more calories than with exercise out of the water. A half hour of running in the pool burns about 300 calories due to the added resistance of the water. Depending on the intensity of the workout 450 to 700 calories can be burned in a one hour class.

The exercises is not just running and walking in water. Calisthenics can be done in the water. Lunges, squats, walking laps, dancing, kicking and jumping are also done. Of course swimming is an option as well. The classes do not require you to know how to swim. Most times you will be in the water up to your chest or waist. Although there are more advanced classes where you are in deep water. In this case a flotation belt is used to keep you upright in the water. Kickboards are used and water noodles both of which offer resistance and help you stay afloat.

Every movement, in every direction, done in the water is against the resistance of it. In this way range of motion is increased, strengthening muscles that may not normally be, outside of the water. Balance and flexibility is improved as well. The core muscles are consistently engaged since you have to keep yourself upright and stable with each movement. To further work the upper body there are dumbbells specifically made for use in the water called aqua blocks.

These classes are held in outdoor and indoor pools. In the warmer months you can stay cool and still get in your daily work out. There are instructor led classes that can usually be found locally at community centers and gyms. Many classes are held in warm water up to 86 degrees. This is ideal for those suffering with arthritis. The warmth relaxes the muscles and soothes the joints. At the same time allowing for exercise that does not further stress either one. The resistance will strengthen the muscles and tendons surrounding the joints.

Women who are in the latter part of pregnancy will find relief from the pressure on different organs and muscles and bones. The water will keep the body buoyant while allowing you to exercise without any jolting or jarring. Back pain is an issue for many people. The stress of gravity is removed in the water and the core and back muscles gain strength which can help reduce back pain.

You may try water aerobics as alternative, or in addition to your normal exercise routine. Just add a day or two of it instead of the treadmill. It is sure to be a lot more fun and interesting while helping you lose weight, improve heart health and gain strong muscles.

About the Author

Water aerobics are a form of exercise that is low impact, effective and just plain fun! Learn more about routines, benefits and locations at http://www.wateraerobicsroutines.com .

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