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Water Aerobic Exercises

Water Aerobics for Seniors, Children
and Everyone in Between

Water aerobic exercises are a great way to get a fantastic and fun workout. This form of aerobic exercises are generally done in shallow water such as a swimming pool. Some people refer to it as AquaFit or Aqua Aerobics.

There are some aquatic workouts that are performed in the deeper waters but most classes and exercise routines are done in the shallow water.

These are not only a great way to get your workout but a great way to beat the summer heat. What I love about them is no one can tell when I’m sweating.

What are Water Aerobic Exercises?

Water aerobics are typical exercises you may do on the land but instead they are performed in the water. Some typical exercise routines may including walking or jogging in place in the water, hopping or jumping jacks, imitating cross country skiing and various arm movements.

Many water aerobic exercise routines will also incorporate strength training movements. The water provides an excellent resistance in order to tone and build your lean muscle mass.

Benefits of Water Aerobic Exercises

In addition to the typical benefits to exercise, aquatic exercises give you the added benefit reducing the risk of joint and muscle injury. By performing exercises in the water, your body is supported and there is less stress on your muscles when stretching, allowing a greater range of motion.

When exercising in water you are also preventing overheating as you are constantly cooling down your body in the water. Water aerobics are a great stress reliever.

Be sure to read this article to find out what other benefits water aerobic exercises can give you.

Disadvantages

Water aerobic exercises require access to a swimming pool. If you have a swimming pool then you are set to go. However not everyone has a pool so this form of exercising can get costly. In addition to the cost of the swimming pool facility, many places charge an additional fee for the aerobics class.

Water aerobics do not burn as many calories as other aerobic exercises. Even though the water provides additional resistance, making the exercise a bit more challenging, the speed at which you can perform the exercise is reduced due to the water resistance. So don’t expect this type of exercise to burn as many calories as your brisk walk.

If you have access to a swimming pool then adding at least one day a week of water aerobics is a great way to get fit and healthy and keep your exercise routines varied.

Water Aerobics for Seniors

As we age our bones become weaker and our joints ache more. This makes it difficult to perform certain exercises. However, seniors can still get the benefits of aerobic exericses with water aerobics. This type of exercise reduces the impact to the joints and bones but still provides a great cardio workout.

Because the water adds an additional resistance you are working your heart without overheating your body. This type of exercise also builds lean muscle which helps to strengthen the bones. That's why water aerobics for seniors is a perfect choice for both aerobic exercise and strength training exercises.