Water Aerobics Benefits

Water aerobics or aqua aerobics is a great combination of fun and exercise. The exercise involves various body movements in a rhythmic style and also certain kinds of dance steps. A session of water aerobics has a duration of about 40 to 50 minutes of chest deep water exercise. The aerobics program gradually increases from basic steps to high intensity exercises. For improved cardiovascular activity and muscle endurance, water aerobics surpasses all kinds of sports. This workout concentrates on body parts such as limbs, chest, abdomen, neck and back. it is especially beneficial for the elderly.

Advantages of Water Aerobics

# When the body is immersed in water, the body weight lightens due to water buoyancy. This property of the water supports 80% of the body's weight. Because of this reason, people who take up water aerobics experience less strain on their joints, back and torso. In case of land exercises, the strain is felt at a higher level. Reduced gravitational pull in the water increases flexibility of the body while exercising. Workouts can be carried out without any anxiety, especially by older people.

# Water is denser than air and so is the resistance offered by it. So regular water exercise results in rapid toning of body muscles. The difference is felt all around the body leading to a complete body workout or exercise.

# Improved cardiovascular conditioning is one of the important health benefits of water aerobics. People engaging in this form of aerobic exercise have been found to have high level HDL (good) cholesterol and healthy blood circulation as well. Compared to other land sports like cycling or running, the heart rate remains steady while working out in water. This also aids in maintaining good health of the heart.

# When it comes to weight loss, water aerobics is more beneficial than other sports. The average number of calories burned on land is 135 in half an hour, while that in deep water is 264.

# Water aerobic exercises are also beneficial in treating medical disorders such as arthritis and osteoporosis. Expectant mothers can also avail the benefits of this kind of exercise. Floating in the water provides relief from stress on the back, and joint pain. It also serves as a great way to relax. Moreover, in water aerobics, risks of accidental injuries to the mother tend to be lower than in regular gyms.

# As mentioned earlier, there is nothing like taking a dip in cool water on a hot day of the summer. In aqua aerobics, you not only get a total body exercise, but also enjoy the freshness and coolness of the water. The water does not allow the body temperature to fluctuate, and maintains a constant temperature throughout. You can keep cool and be comfortable even when the mercury is rising.

Drawbacks of Water Aerobics

The main disadvantage of water aerobics is that it is difficult to perform the exercise without a swimming pool or in some cases an instructor as well. Although you can get a pool membership, the cost may be heavy on your pocket. There have also been cases wherein, some people suffered skin irritations and infections after exercising. This may emerge mainly because of the types of chemicals used in the pool to disinfect the water. In such cases, it is a good practice to go for a good shower after you get out of the pool. Proper swimming trunks are also beneficial in preventing any kinds of waterborne infections.

As we can see, the health benefits of water aerobics overshadow those of several other sports. These kinds of exercises are associated with lesser strain, anxiety and tiredness and more pleasure, fun and relaxation. Water aerobics also does not require many equipment like that in a gym. It's just you and the water and lots of benefits improving your health and personality!