Water Aerobics is For Everyone!Posted on 01.29.2010 : Authored by Cara Zolinsky
Benefits of Water Aerobics Many studies have shown that aquatic aerobics provides a total body workout that is just as effective, and even safer, than land-based exercises. Because the buoyancy of water removes 90 percent of one's weight, stress to the muscles and to the joints are alleviated. This makes it an ideal form of exercise that anyone-young or old, injured or uninjured, fit or unaccustomed to exercise-can perform with relative ease and still reap health benefits that rival the land-based variety. More Effective in the Water? Also, many studies suggest that some of the health benefits of water aerobics may be even greater than standard exercises. "The minute one hits the water," says Utah State University campus reporter Rachel Marberger, "every muscle in one's body is being used." Water has 12 times the resistance capacity of air and, as such, places enormous tension on every muscle with every movement one makes. This turns every exercise into a total body workout. Water Aerobics is for Everyone! The buoyancy of water, combined with its resistant properties, makes it an ideal exercise for anyone (although one should always obtain a doctor's approval before beginning any fitness program). Beginners. Beginners to a fitness program will find that, unlike traditional land-based exercises, water-based aerobics gently (yet effectively) conditions the muscles and the cardiovascular system preparing them for more advanced exercise regimens. Overweight. For those who are overweight, aerobic exercises can be painful, unpleasant, and even dangerous. The impact to the joints is significantly greater in obese individuals, leaving them more vulnerable to injuries. But the buoyancy of water takes the stress off of the muscles and joints, making water aerobics a healthy, safe and effective alternative. Health Problems. For those with special health problems-such as arthritis, osteoporosis, heart problems, and those recovering from injury or surgery-aquatic aerobics provides a cushioning effect for the body, thereby making these exercises easier to perform while, at the same time, providing substantial aerobic and strength training benefits. Pregnant Women. Recent studies have confirmed that pregnant women may benefit greatly from water aerobics. Not only do they lessen the risk of injury to the mother and to her unborn child but, in one study, pregnant women who participated in aquatic aerobics were 58 percent less likely than their non-aqueous counterparts to request pain medication during childbirth. The results of this study indicate that water aerobics may indeed make childbirth easier for women. Senior Citizens. Traditional aerobics can be difficult-and even dangerous-for a senior citizen to perform. Such high-impact exercise programs can exacerbate the arthritic symptoms and the osteoporosis that so often plague the elderly population. The impact-free nature of water aerobics, however, literally cushions their bodies from such dangers. Thanks to research studies and to media reports, many people are now enjoying the benefits of water aerobics, ensuring that their bodies will reap its health benefits for years to come. Related Topics :: Cardio |
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