A swimming pool is a fantastic spot for not only fun but getting in shape as well. In addition to a swimming pool providing your family with a backyard oasis in which to cool off on a hot summer day, it is also a great spot for adding to your workout routine and giving your body a break from on-land exercises. Swimming workouts do double duty by offering a way to get in shape by using the waters’ resistance to enhance the workout while not putting undue pressure and stress on your joints.
When the sun is beating down, working out in the water also keeps your body temperature regulated. Face it, when summer is at its peak, it’s hard to muster the energy to undertake a workout in the heat and/or humidity, right? When you take a water aerobics class – whether in a group setting or in the comfort of your own backyard – you can get a good workout in 30 minutes. Water resistance offers a way to build muscle strength and flexibility and working out in the water help you build a healthy heart and lungs.
Other benefits to working out in the water include:
- You can build muscle strength more quickly. Because of the resistance of the water as compared to working out on land – water aerobics helps your muscles work more effectively than your regular aerobics workout. Many people see results more quickly as the result of a water workout.
- Minimal strain on your joints. When you run, walk or are involved in weight training, they are beneficial for your body and overall health but these exercises are hard on your joints. Because water supports up to 80% of your body weight, you face les of a chance of injuring your joints than an on land workout. Water aerobics are a great way for senior citizens and those recovering from injuries to get healthy.
- Regardless of the weather, a water exercise routine keeps your body temperature regulated. Exercising in a swimming pool keeps your body temperature constant when the weather is hot and/or humid.
- Build heart health and strength in the water. Putting your all into a water aerobics exercise routine greatly helps strengthen your heart.
- Powerhouse calorie burning. When you exercise in the water you can burn between 450-700 calories per hour – it is difficult to burn that many while in an on land workout.
