So Aqua Aerobics, why?
There are a multitude of benefits of exercising in water instead of on land.
The stress and strain on the body is reduced because waters density means that 90% of a body’s weight is supported (if immersed to the neck).The weight bearing stress that gravity puts on the body joints is therefore greatly relieved. There is a decreased likelihood of muscle and joint injuries occurring even with exercises traditionally referred to as high impact such as jumping.
The range of moment in water is usually improved because of the reduced degree of muscle effort required, for example people who might have difficulty raising their knee to hip height on land will be able to perform the move with ease in water due to the helping hand of buoyancy.
Water-based heart rate is approximately 13% lower than during land-based exercise. There are several theories about why this is but it is well documented that similar cardiovascular gains can be achieved from land and water based workouts.
Working out in water is fantastic, it reduces stress and strain on the body joints whilst providing an effective cardiovascular and endurance workout. In other words it’s perfect for older adults, pregnant woman and overweight participants.
Before starting any new exercise program please check with your doctor and clear any exercise changes with them.
This article has been previously published here: Whole Life Fitness
Helen
Having worked in IT in London for 15 years I was made redundant in 2009. I had trained as a gym instructor whilst working and decided I would rather spend the rest of my career doing something I loved than look for another job in IT. I furthered my qualifications with a Certificate in Advanced Personal Training from the highly regarded Premier Training. Many personal trainers are generalists covering all areas of fitness but I took the decision to specialise in the over-50s and therefore went on to do a CYQ Award in Functional Training for the Independent Older Adult Level 3. My focus is on overall health rather than fitness. I believe that making small changes can have a long term positive effect on health and well-being.
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Thanks for this post, Helen.
There is a perception that aqua aerobics should be left to the elderly and that’s sad.
I go to two different aqua classes, mainly because I can’t do high impact due to a long-standing ankle injury. I am a strong swimmer but the benefits of a class are so much more than just exercise. There’s community and belonging and sharing, too.
But, it is obvious that some in the class make less of an effort than others. When done correctly and to high intensity, aqua aerobics gives excellent cardiovascular, toning and core stability. And it’s fun!
on June 19, 2012 at 5:24 pm Lesley Beeton