The miraculous quality of water – To heal – makes it the most therapeutic, soft and the most ideal medium to exercise in it.
Depth can vary from the shallow for fat burn, to the middle and deep ends of the pool for deep muscle conditioning and neuro muscular coordination.
A lot of props are used in the water for different workouts for floatation, and to increase the resistance in the water, like aqua bells, noodles, mitts, balls, barbells etc.
Research over the last few decades has established the fact that everyone should participate in Resistance Training to maintain and develop active muscle tissue for everyday use.
Now you need not only dream of a slim and trim body but, you can actually achieve it.
- You weigh only 10% of your bodyweight when submerged in the water. This automatically unloads your joints, bringing the impact down to zero. (so arthritic / joint issues are taken care of)
- It is a Hi-Calorie burner 600 to 1200 Cals/hour. That helps to lose weight.
- Water has 13 times more resistance than air, so the intensity of a water workout is that much higher than the one done on land. (10 minutes exercise done in the water is equal to about 30 minutes on the treadmill)
- Gives great symmetry to your body and at the same time helps you to overcome the plateau in your workout regime.
- It is pain free.
- It is an anti-depressant.
- It is fun.
- It is therapeutic.
- Aqua Aerobics
- Aqua Strength Training
- Aqua Kickboxing
- Aqualates (Pilates in water)
- Aqua Yoga
- Aqua Taichi
- Aquaball
- Aqua Bootcamp
- Aqua-Tabata
- Aqua Zumba
- Aqua Tango
- Aqua Hiit
- Aqua Circuit
The surprise this season is Aqua Bungee.
The list goes on and on. It never lets boredom set in. Makes Aqua cross training all the more effective, bringing you closer to your goals.
What more can one ask for with such a dream workout available in the pool in your vicinity?
- Peri or menopausal women
- Highly recommended for those suffering from Arthritis, osteoporosis, Diabetes, Cardiac issues and Varicose veins. Most important of all – Obesity (excellent for Weight Loss)
- Post-surgery and pre-surgery rehab like knee/hip replacements, frozen shoulders
- Pre-post natal
- Senior citizens
- You do not need to know swimming, as a lot of floatation devices are used to help you keep afloat in the water.
- Unlike other exercises in aqua aerobics there is no DOMS – Delayed onset of muscle soreness – which sets in when you exercise on land.
- There is no risk of injury as the hydrostatic pressure of the water cushions your body all around.
Anyone suffering from a skin infection, urinary infection, or epilepsy.
1. Who says we cannot do weight bearing exercises in water?
We are doing it, using aqua bells that are 10 pounds and more.
2. Who says only swimmers can participate?
Non swimmers can participate too using floatation devices which are absolutely safe.
3. Who says you cannot do aqua during your periods?
You can use tampons during your periods and continue to exercise during those five days as they seal you against any infection, are completely, and also one does not bleed in the water.
4. Who says we do not sweat in the water?
When you exercise at such high intensity levels and burn 600 to 1200 cals per hour, you are bound to sweat… so you must keep yourself hydrated before, during, and after class to avoid dehydration.
- Check out the hygiene of the pool and the source of its water before enrolling for an aqua fitness programme.
- Always workout under the supervision of a certified trainer.
- Regarding attire / accoutrements, if you have it, then flaunt it in a flattering bikini or suit, and be an inspiration to others. If you don’t have it or are conscious of exposing then grab a dri-fit rashguard T-shirt and tights, and let those bumps turn into curves and not deterrents.
- Always use a good sunscreen 20 minutes prior to getting into the pool to avoid sunburn / tan.
So ladies, go ahead and find a pool that fulfils all the requirements in your vicinity and lower yourself into its cool depths and splash your way to your goals and to that hot bod you have always dreamt about. And remember age is no bar, my youngest student being 9 years and the oldest being 84 years. So all you mothers and daughters, daughter-in-law and mother-in-law and grandmothers, share some quality time and bond in your aqua fitness sessions.
