If you’re looking for a great way to add some variety into your workouts without adding more high impact activities, it might be time for a visit to your community’s swimming pool. Exercising in the water offers a number of benefits and you don’t have to be an expert swimmer to enjoy an aquatic workout.
Benefits of Water-Based Exercises
Whether you are interested in swimming laps, taking part in a group water aerobics class, or want to try some exercising on your own, working out in water offers quite a few benefits:
- Low impact, which makes it great for folks who are living with conditions like osteoarthritis, back pain and fibromyalgia
- Helps to improve your flexibility without hurting your joints
- Nobody can see if you make mistakes under the water!
- It is more comfortable, and less sweaty, to work out in a pool
- It is easy to modify exercises based on ability
- The water itself provides resistance
While working out in the water is a great choice, just remember that it isn’t weight bearing so you will have to do some other types of training to help strengthen your bones.
Group Classes
Most community pools offer group water aerobics classes like AquaFit. These classes can either be in shallow or deep water and are taught by a certified instructor. Often, multiple skill levels and abilities can participate together in one class because it is easy to modify of the workout for any fitness level by speeding up or slowing down the movements, going into deeper water or using a floatation belt.
AquaFit classes are very accessible for adults of all ages and abilities. The only gear you need to join an AquaFit class is a bathing suit. Some people use pool shoes for shallow-water AquaFit, but they are not required. The pool will supply any flotation devices that you might need.
Swimming Laps
Swimming laps is a great choice for individuals who know how to swim. It is a great full-body exercise that can help to improve overall health as well as increase endurance for other physical activities. You don’t have to be an incredible swimmer to participate, though. As long as you can swim in deep water safely, you can increase your swimming ability as well as your endurance as you practice.
Check with your local pool to find out the times for lane swim. If you’re nervous, try going early in the morning to avoid the crowds until you get more used to your new activity.
Exercise Safely
Overall, water-based exercises are a great choice for many people. As with any types of exercise, it is always a good idea to speak to your doctor before trying something new, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions. Have fun, stay safe, and find out for yourself how incredible working out in your local pool can be.
This story was made possible by our Community Partners Program. Thank you Didsbury Dental for helping to expand local news coverage in Alberta. Learn more.
