You don’t have to be an Olympic swimmer to get a good workout in at the pool. In fact, you don’t even need to swim a single lap. Water aerobicsis becoming increasingly popular at pools and fitness centers. Water workouts can be fun for all ages and all fitness levels. And with the cool splash of the water, you won’t even break a sweat.
Best Swimsuits for Water Aerobics
To feel your best, start off with the right aquatic swimwear. Many people prefer one piece tank swimsuits for water aerobics, or sport-back suits designed for freedom of movement. Others like two-pieces and prefer to shop swim tops and bottoms in different sizes for a better fit.
If you plan on spending a lot of time in the pool, look into chlorine resistant swimwearto find a stylish suit that will stay in shape as you get in shape. A chlorine resistant swimsuit is a must-have for anyone who loves the pool. The specialized colorfast lycra fabric holds up better to the chlorine, and the suit maintains its elasticity longer.
Aquatic Fitness Equipment
Some people like to wear swim shoes to protect their feet and provide more stability during pool workouts. Others bring water gloves, water paddles or weights for extra resistance. Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses for outdoor pools. And believe it or not, you’ll want a water bottle. No matter how cool the pool is, you’ll definitely get thirsty after a good workout.
Types of Water Workouts
Which one is right for you? If you’re ready to dive in headfirst, consider some of these options for an extra-ordinary, out-of-the-box, into-the-flow workout.
Aqua Yoga: Aqua yoga features low-impact exercises and yoga poses. You might use the wall for some poses, such as the cobra pose, or swim noodles to support you as you stretch out in a savasana pose. The water allows you the flexibility to achieve some poses that you may not be able to achieve on land.
Aqua Zumba®: Yes, you heard it right, the Zumba dance party is twice as fun in the water. Expect a high-energy, salsa-inspired workout with low-impact movements that leave your heart pumping and your joints feeling super. This is perfect for people who are in good cardio shape, but want a little less impact on their joints.
Aqua Barre: Barre is a type of workout inspired by the ballet barre. In the water version, the pool’s wall becomes the barre. You get the same core, arms, hips, and thigh workout, but you stay a little cooler in the process.
Aqua Therapy: Aqua therapy classes are geared toward people who are recovering from injuries or who are living with chronic conditions, such as arthritis. The workouts focus on your specific area(s) of weakness. Regaining your strength and your range of motion can be easier when you start in the water.
Aqua Workouts During Pregnancy: Many fitness centers offer aqua aerobics for pregnant women. The weightlessness in the water can be a great relief, especially during the later months of pregnancy. And be sure to check back with your gym after your baby comes along. “Mommy and baby” water classes can be a blast!
Aqua Workouts for Seniors: Staying fit as you age will help you feel great, year after year. Water workouts can be a terrific way to get low-impact exercise that still gives you a cardio workout without joint pain.
What are the Benefits of Aqua Aerobics?
Aqua aerobics is catching on because it’s a fun way to get into shape, no matter where you’re starting from. You can build up your cardio, flexibility, and muscle strength all in one workout.
What’s the secret? It’s the water! Water offers resistance that makes a typical land activity, like walking, much more challenging. Yet at the same time, water offers buoyancy that allows you the flexibility and strength to do things you can’t do on land.
A Boost to Your Self Esteem
Another great benefit of water aerobics is that it makes you feel terrific. With the cooling effect of the water and the exhilarating beat of the music, you won’t even know you’re working out. Before you know it, you will feel and look your best!
And for many people, aqua classes are more comfortable than other group workouts, because there’s no mirror. The water itself gives you cover, so that you don’t feel as if you’re on display. Or, if you’re someone who loves show off your body and your moves, getting to exercise in your latest halter tankini or floral one piece can’t be beat.
Water aerobics is great for everyone. It’s easy on your joints, can be tailored to your fitness level, and best of all, it’s super fun! It’s time to be proud of your age, abilities and body. If you’re ready to take the next step toward fitness, why not make it a plunge?
