Water is a wonderful medium to exercise in because it is low impact, meaning you won’t stress your joints as you may in other activities. It offers excellent resistance, which will help develop lean muscle and bone density without lifting weights or putting further stress on your body.
Water is therapeutic – it feels relaxing, whether warm or cold. You can also exercise all year round in the water – indoor pools are always available, and during the warmer months, you can take your workout outdoors.
Group fitness
Aqua aerobics (fitness classes to music in water) are offered at most public pools. These classes are great because they are guided, so you can set aside 30 minutes or an hour and exercise your whole body. The timetable means you can set yourself a routine and stick to it, and exercising with others is a great way to make friends.
If you suffer from arthritis or other inflammatory conditions, inquire about aqua aerobics in a warm pool (spa heat). The warmth will reduce pain and the water often allows you to achieve a greater range of movement. If your aquatic centre doesn’t offer warmer water classes, they may do so if you have a group ready to go.
Aqua jogging (literally mimicking the action of running in deep water) is excellent for your cardiovascular fitness. It is non-impact and ideal to do with a friend. If you can aqua jog and chat at the same time, you will increase the intensity of your workout slightly and have fun at the same time!
Both aqua aerobics and aqua jogging are good for rehabilitation following a joint replacement.
The benefits of swimming go without saying – it builds fitness, maintains a good range of movement and is a terrific way to get some time to think. Most centres will offer swimming classes – it’s never too late to learn, or brush up on technique.
On top of the water
Kayaking, rowing, sailing or stand up paddle boarding are also option for fitness if you prefer to stay on top of the water. All three can also be highly social as there are any number of clubs throughout the country.
Variety is the key
In order to maintain an active lifestyle, it is a good idea to have a number of different activities in your repertoire to keep yourself stimulated and your body adaptable. Add a water sport to your fitness regime and you will feel the benefits rapidly.