We all know the benefits of adding regular exercise to our lives, but for some people this is a bigger problem. If you have old joint injuries, arthritis, or another condition that makes the usual gym workout unrealistic, there are still great exercise options. One of the best and safest workouts for these sufferers takes place in a pool, through either swimming or with the growing trend of aquatic exercise.
The best thing about aquatic exercise is that it is a great workout for anyone, whether they choose it for medical reasons or just because they like the water. You don’t even have to be a particularly skilled swimmer in many cases, although some water experience is necessary. Just make sure that you find a class with an instructor trained in CPR if you are unsure of your swimming strength. Also, it can offer an intensive enough workout that it is still beneficial to those who are already exercising using other equipment and methods.
Aquatic exercise and swimming also gives you a full body workout. Have you ever seen Olympic swimmers? Well, to have their body type as a goal is a bit unrealistic, however, you probably noticed that their whole bodies are generally evenly toned. Swimming and aquatic exercise allow you to work out all of you muscle groups in one environment all at the same time!
Unless, you are interested in really bulky muscles, aquatic exercise is a better choice over regular weight machines. Since generally working with water resistance, instead of heavy weights, can help focusing on repetitions over heavy weight.
This creates more muscle tone without giving you big, weight lifter muscles. Plus, gravity has less effect on you while in the water, which is why it is so beneficial for people with any kind of joint or muscle issues. Being able to exercise those muscles without putting undue strain on them is always a positive aspect of a fitness routine. Overall, the water is much easier on your muscles and joints making the workout experience far more enjoyable and far less painful.
Fortunately, aquatic exercise is a newly growing trend. While some people have been swimming laps as their favorite form of exercise for years, aquatic exercise has only more recently been used outside of physical therapy. Now, classes are being offered at many gyms throughout the country and range from the beginner level to advance. If you have any injuries of ongoing conditions, be sure to let the instructor know ahead of time, so that they can warn you of exercises that may be more difficult and give you other options that don’t cause pain or strain.
Of course, if you would rather do laps, this can be done on your own at the gym or community pool, or by getting into competitive swimming. Aquatic exercise can also be done on your own, by first reading a couple of books or getting an aquatic exercise kit. Be sure you are a strong and capable swimmer before venturing off on your own. It may be better to find an exercise aquatic partner to help keep you motivated and safe, as well.