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Pool workouts all year round
By Christina | December 7, 2007
Sure, in the summer it makes sense to enjoy the great outdoors with an aqua workout but what about in the winter? Why quit your pool exercise just because it’s cool outside? The truth is most fitness facilities that offer aqua classes will either heat their pool or have an indoor option. You can keep up your water cardio training through the seasons. There are some very good reasons to add pool workouts to your exercise routine if you have not done so already.
Reasons to start an aqua routine:
- Increased cardiovascular endurance
- Increased muscular strength and endurance
- Increased flexibility
- Increased coordination
- Increased agility and power
- Improved balance
In addition to the above listed benefits, there are many others. The pool is therapeutic. If you are recovering from injuries or have a chronic bone or joint problem, the water is also ideal for you to maintain your fitness level. The pool is an excellent tool for its cooling and massaging properties as you move through it. When you are standing in chest deep water as is recommended for aqua exercise, the pool is supporting 90% of your body weight so that you are only bearing 10% of your body weight on your bones and joints - a vast difference from the usual pounding your body takes on land.
Make sure to drink plenty of water to maintain a good hydration level. In the cool water you will not realize you are still working and sweating and losing water your body needs for proper functioning. Don’t be misled, working out in the water does not mean you you are not sweating. Our bodies are always losing water.
Enjoy your workouts, vary your routine and take proper care of yourself starting with medical clearance, a healthy diet and adequate rest.
Topics: Aqua Fitness, General |