Water is a critical component of life. Most health professionals recommend we drink twelve glasses of water a day and more if we are active.

But we are here to suggest that we use it to exercise in. Swimming is the best form of water exercise.

Water exercise is an excellent modality to develop a comprehensive fitness especially beneficial for people suffering from some chronic health problems.

Water is an ideal place to take the First Step to health and fitness because it can be adapted and modified to the individual depending upon their particular needs. The beauty of water exercise is that it can provide a strenuous work-out for the elite athlete or can be tailored to meet the needs of the novice.

Water is a perfect place for the person who has joint problems to start exercising in because it allows the effects of gravity to be diminished and allows movements to occur that would be painful and difficult on land. It is good for injured runner/athletes or people suffering from arthritis or other joint problems as it allows them to maintain their aerobic function while not causing further damage.

The benefits of a water fitness routine are many.

PSYCHOLOGICAL BENEFITS

• Improved muscular strength and endurance
• Increased flexibility
• Expanded cardiovascular fitness

SOCIAL/PSYCHOLOGICAL BENEFITS

• Improved self-confidence and self-esteem
• Less pain and expanded movements
• Increased social interaction and new friendships

For the person who is just taking the First Step listen to your body and train at a level that feels just right for YOU! Find a sport or an activity that feels good for YOU, and for some people water exercise fits just right!

SUCCESS FACTORS 

In higher workout intensities as compared to land exercises. A massaging effect is created when your muscles are surrounded by water.

• Water provides twelve per cent more resistance than movements on land without the gravitational stress and pain.
• Water exercise is adaptable to everyone’s desires, needs and abilities.
• Non-swimmers can safely participate.
• You are more likely to participate.
• Water visually shields your body for those participants feeling uncomfortable or awkward in normal exercise environments.
• A variety of exercise equipment is available to assist with resistance and flotation.
• High calorie burning during and after a workout.
• In-door pools allow for year round exercise programs.
• Your heart rate is slower making exercise beneficial for pregnancy, obese, and heart disease participants.
• Renews your energy level as it releases your stress and tension.

WATER EXERCISE TIPS

Water exercise heart rates are lower than land based training heart rates, so make the necessary adjustments. Rates of perceived exertion are generally a good way to train in the water.

Don’t over do it! Water exercise is still exercise even though it may feel like it, don’t push it!

Be safe. Always have someone close by when in the pool.

Protect your skin and your eyes.