Aqua Classes Provide Alternative for Exercising
Finding an appropriate aerobic activity can be difficult for individuals who are not use to exercising, especially for those with bad knees or arthritis, or for those who are overweight. High-impact exercises are often painful, making cardio exercise impossible.
But individuals can move forward with their workout routine knowing there are other low-impact options. One of those options is water aerobics. For individuals who haven’t made exercise a priority, water aerobics is a great place to start. Water aerobics is a form of resistance training performed in shallow water that offers the heart-healthy benefits of other aerobic exercise yet is gentle on the body. Because the buoyancy of the water supports a large percentage of the body, almost anyone can perform aquatic exercises, including those with age- or health-related issues. Aqua classes are instructor-led.
A series of arm, leg and core exercises are performed while standing chest-deep in water. As fitness increases, weights, paddles and noodles can be incorporated to up the intensity of the workout. Not only does it strengthen major muscle groups, the heart and lungs, water aerobics is joint-friendly. By putting less stress on the joints and ligaments, exercisers are able to enjoy their workouts. And because time in the water is pleasant, sticking to a regular exercise routine is more likely.
