There is a general misconception that water aerobics is
suitable for only pregnant women and the elderly. But in all reality water aerobics, done
right, can prove to be a very intense workout for all ages and fitness levels –
even the professional athlete who needs to cross train. In fact, according to a March 2011 article in
the International Journal of Sports Medicine, Water Aerobics has been shown to
provide many of the same benefits in terms of physical fitness as in land-based
training programs.
There are a number of unique benefits to this form of
exercise. It provides significant
cardiovascular and strength training benefits due to the water’s built-in
natural resistance to movement and hydrostatic pressure, while simultaneously providing
added flexibility and ease on the joints.
In water
aerobics water surrounds the exerciser during the entire exercise routine
making resistance three-dimensional. Depending on the force exerted, the speed
of movement, and the surface area presented, the range of resistance obtained
will adjust and add to the challenge of the workout.
Water exercise increases
lung capacity as well, by forcing the lungs to work harder as a result of the
waters hydrostatic pressure. The
pressure of the water on the chest wall during aquatic exercise opposes the
muscles that expand the chest for breathing.
With regular water exercise, this resistance can strengthen these
muscles and subsequently enable intake of a greater volume of air when involved
in land activities.
It is also well
understood that being underwater provides a wider range of motion to the joints,
which can in turn increase flexibility.
Aquatic exercise provides a mode for performing difficult stretches that
may not be as possible otherwise. According to the American Council on Exercise, water buoyancy reduces the "weight"
of a person up to 90 percent. This subsequently reduces the burden on stress-bearing
joints and muscles. For this reason, water aerobics will less likely cause
injury and muscle soreness. If you, for example, are having difficulty
performing certain body movements on land, you may find relief when performing
them underwater.
The Palm Desert
Aquatic Center currently offers eleven water aerobic classes throughout the
week. They range from shallow to deep,
challenging to less strenuous, and early in the day to later in the evening.
Consider beginning an exercise program or augmenting what you already have
going. Try water aerobics. You might be surprised by it’s
effectiveness. www.pdpool.com