Water Wonders
Aqua Aerobic Classes - Getting Fit in the Water
Usually, when most of us envision a water aerobics class, our minds generate a picture of several silver- haired seniors, treading the waters of the local gym pool with water noodles in hand and water shoes on kicking up a few waves. They might be listening to a boom box spewing Barry Manilow’s Copacabana and a mild-mannered instructor shouting cues from the shallow end. They usually have smiles on their faces.
Water aerobics can still be very much like what we envision (and it can be a darn good workout too), but exercising in the H2O has emerged from leg lifts and arm circles to sprinting against a waist-high current. Some of the newest trends are getting us fit in the water and working wonders on our wellbeing
As far as health benefits, many fitness experts tout water exercise as the safest and most beneficial overall body workout. Unique classes are making waves at many fitness centers, and even land lovers are trading gym shorts for swim caps and loving the results.
Some classes, focusing on core strength and lengthening use the buoyant support and resistance of water to create an effective workout based on the principals of Pilates. Hydro Pilates™ classes are considered good on the joints and good for the cardio system. Hydracuatica™ is a full body workout that includes cardio and aerobic activities to improve overall tone. Some classes combine a fluid mix of movements from techniques such as Pilates, Yoga and Tai Chi to incorporate a variety of movements for great results. Look for names like Aqua Piyochi and Water Pi-Yo on your gym’s schedule. These classes develop a system of corrective exercises to tone muscles and improve posture, flexibility and balance.
For all you Sweaty Betty’s out there, who want a serious workout, don’t discount the water. Loyal land exercisers are getting winded in classes like water boot camp and aqua cardio blast. These programs offer a high intensity cardio and strengthening workout using weights, circuit, and agility training against H2O resistance.
These days, Aqua-for-Arthritis isn’t the only water class to choose from. Check out these water workouts to kick-start your fitness program or change-up your regular land routine.
Aquatic Cross Training: Sports based aquatic program possibly using resistance tools and buoyancy vests to increase intensity of the workout.
Water Running: This is ultimate resistance in the water and great cross training for athletes.
Aqua Combo: Using both traditional aquatic cardio training and an aqua step.
Aqua Fit: A challenging cardio and resistance training program.
Deep Cardio & Core: Classes like these, offer all the benefits of deep water training with a special emphasis on the core.
Deep H2O: Make the water your personal trainer with this deep water interval. These workouts usually include abs and lower back.
H2O Combo: Various types of water exercise are incorporated in this super workout.
Aquatics are among the few exercise classes where people of all ages and fitness levels can benefit from the same workout. Some exercisers feel that it might be easier to reach and maintain an appropriate training intensity in the gym rather than in the pool. However, the benefit of any workout depends on the motivation and energy applied to the exercise. If the class is well taught and the participants increase the intensity of the exercise by the use of water resistance devices, then aqua workout will give desired benefits.
If the thought of three long months of resistance training inside four small walls has you drowning in drudgery, take off your shoes and put on your one-piece. Aqua classes are safe, fun and TOUGH enough to have you seeing bikini body results in no time.
What do you think about this article?
More in Health & Wellness
Latest Articles