Even with the growing number of creative ways to stay fit—from going to the gym to training for triathlons—there is still quite a number of people who like exercising in the water. But why do some people prefer to do water aerobics with dedicated gear in the pool or at the beach?
Believe it or not, water exercises are not just for the elderly. It can actually be a very challenging cardio exercise for the younger generation. So if you’re not completely sold on the idea of enrolling in that water aerobics class, here is a list of benefits that could change your mind.
10 Benefits of Water Aerobics
Relieves pressure on joints
The main benefit of water aerobics—or the reason why many choose to participate in water-based exercises—is that the buoyancy of the water helps to alleviate the pressure on your joints when you move. By reducing wear-and-tear, it becomes therapeutic for those who may be at risk or suffering from arthritis and other joint problems.
Serves as low-impact exercise
Speaking of water buoyancy, water-based exercises not only makes it easier on the joints but also takes off some of the overall impact that we usually place on our body when we exercise on land. We are not as heavy, since our body is not subject to gravity while in the water, and our movements are slower because of water resistance (more so in saltwater). This is why water aerobics is recommended for those who are undergoing physical therapy.
Burns calories
As with any form of continuous movement, exercising in the water promotes the burning of body fat and weight loss. And by combining workouts with water resistance, the body spends more energy than one would expect. When complemented with weighted water aerobics equipment (such as dumbbells and weight belts), and with the right water temperature, volume, and buoyancy, the body can burn as much as 400 calories in just an hour of water exercise!
Cooling and refreshing
One of the biggest benefits of water exercise is the fact that it gives you a chance to get into the water, which is great during the hot summer months! Not only does it make you feel cooler and more refreshed, but it also keeps you from struggling and sweating in the heat. For a truly refreshing experience, you can even wear your favorite swimsuit for water aerobics.
Relieves stress and anxiety
Because of the low-impact workout, the water, and the environment (especially when you’re at the beach), it’s undeniable that water aerobics can be one of the most relaxing and stress-relieving activities that you can participate in. In fact, studies have shown that water exercises significantly decrease anxiety and improve your mood.
Increases muscle strength
Given the natural density of water, its normal level of resistance already makes water aerobics a pretty challenging workout. Add the fact that water flows in different directions, more so when doing your movements next to other participants, the water resistance can be anywhere between 4 to 42 times greater than air. When done in deep water, water exercise makes a great alternative to moderate strength training.
Increases flexibility
Aside from promoting muscle strength, continuous bodily movements in flowing (resistant) water helps your joints naturally increase their range of motion. This is particularly true for older adults who regularly participate in aerobic therapy exercise.
Builds endurance
It’s already pretty obvious that the water serves as an element that uniquely benefits the participant—by decreasing body impact while increasing the effort needed to move. Therefore, another bodily benefit of water workouts is that it builds endurance, the extent of which would depend on the water resistance and exercise activity.
Lowers blood pressure
Water resistance not only works with your muscles and joints but also helps reduce your blood pressure. How? The combined movements in the water allow your blood to circulate more effectively throughout your body. At the same time, water-based exercises allow you to keep moving while keeping your stress levels at bay.
Appropriate for all ages
Needless to say, water aerobics is ideal for people of all ages and skill levels. If you’re young, you’ll surely enjoy aerobics classes in swimming pools or at the beach. And if you’re part of the older generation, aqua aerobics can be a great way to maintain a moderate fitness level. In fact, aquatic therapy is proven safe even for pregnant women (unlike scuba diving). So if you’re looking for a fun summer activity that you can enjoy with your family and friends, this could be it!
