Staying Fit with Water Aerobics Routines
Physical fitness is becoming more of a priority for many people in today's world. There are many different ways that people go about getting and staying fit. One of the best ways to improve your overall health and fitness is through aerobic activity. This type of exercise is aimed at getting your heart rate up and keeping it there for a certain amount of time.
Examples of this would be running, biking, stepping, jumping rope and others. Almost anything can be turned into an aerobic workout. Unfortunately, some people cannot reap the benefits of certain types of exercise due to various existing physical conditions. The good news is that this problem has been somewhat alleviated through water aerobics routines.
Advantages
Water aerobics routines are ideal for people who cannot perform other types of exercises. People who suffer from joint issues do not have to worry about the stress and pounding that they would experience if running or even walking. People with back problems are often not able to exercise normally. Water aerobics routines will allow them to get all the benefits that come from aerobic activity without the undue stress on their back. Pregnant women are also advised to take part in this type of exercise. This eliminates the possibility of problems arising from the constant jarring of other types of exercise.
Water aerobics routines aren't just limited to people who have physical conditions. Everyone can benefit from the unique characteristics of this type of exercise. The water provides resistance that is great for strength training and muscle toning, in addition to the cardiovascular benefits. Also, there is a soothing sensation just from being in the water that can help ease soreness in joints and muscles.
Water aerobics routines are similar to regular aerobics in that the instructor will use music and choreographed moves. Just like standard aerobics classes, there may also be a use of props, such as weights and kickboards. The nature of the water allows you some options not available with regular aerobics. The water provides natural resistance for muscle toning and strength training. More advanced water aerobics routines may employ the use of webbed gloves or swim fins to increase that resistance.
Many common forms of exercise can be implemented into water aerobics routines, such as running, walking, kickboxing, and dance. Special exercise equipment has even been designed specifically for water use. These include steppers, treadmills, rowers and bikes.
The typical water aerobics routine should last between 30 and 40 minutes. People who can't swim need not worry, because these programs are usually conducted in water that is no more than chest high. Another advantage this type of exercise has over the others is that it's a lot of fun. This makes it easier to stick to than some other types of exercise. Basically, you can get healthy and fit by doing something you used to do for fun as a kid.
