-Your body is supported — making exercises easier and less painful while you are performing movements ranging from the simple to those that are nearly impossible on land.
-The buoyancy provided by the water helps to protect your joints from the shocking impact usually associated with exercising on land.
-Resistance of the water (hydrostatic pressure) against all of your motions resulting in higher workout intensities as compared to land exercises. A massaging effect is created when your muscles are surrounded by water.
-Water provides twelve per cent more resistance than movements on land - without the gravitational stress and pain.
-Water exercise is adaptable to everyone's desires, needs and abilities.
-Non-swimmers can safely participate.
-You are more likely to participate if you don't sweat or get your hair wet.
-Water visually shields your body - for those participants feeling uncomfortable or awkward in normal exercise environments.
-A variety of exercise equipment is available to assist with resistance and flotation.
-High calorie burning during and after a workout.
-In-door pools allow for year round exercise programs.
-Your heart rate is slower making water exercise beneficial for pregnancy, obese, and heart disease participants.
-Renews your energy level as it releases your stress and tension.
-Water exercise is wonderful for participants with arthritis, back or other joint problems.
Tips:
-A doctor's guidance is advised before you start a new exercise program,
-Water depth should be about chest high. There is more impact on your joints if you are standing in shallower water. Losing your balance and correct form will result if the water is too deep.
-Exercising against the water can stress joints. Maintain proper form and don't over-exert your joints.
-Wear water shoes to improve your footing and protect your feet.
-Touching your heel to the floor each time your foot lands promotes correct form.
-Stretch your muscles with a warm up before active exercise and a cool down afterward. Each stretching session should last 8-10 minutes.
-Don't attempt to do too much too soon. If the movement hurts, don't do it. Water exercise should be painless.
-Depending on your condition, you can exercise as slow or as fast as you desire.
-Use barbells, noodles or gloves for additional resistance and increased intensity during your workout
-Workout with a friend for safety and encouragement.
-Music is helpful to set your pace, to motivate, to avoid boredom or to soothe and calm.
-Keep yourself hydrated before, during and after your workout by drinking plenty of water
