Water Aerobics

If you are looking for a good all-around form of aerobic exercise, why not try water aerobics?

Running, jogging and walking underwater in a pool not only strengthens the leg and hip muscles – the quadriceps, hamstrings and gluteals – but helps to develop cardiorespiratory fitness.

If you are a novice to this form of exercise, the key is to take it easy at the start. At first, lightly exercise in the shallow end — walking at this stage will be enough. As your confidence improves, move gradually move to thigh-deep then chest deep water, increasing your speed your speed as you do so. Whilst moving, aim to use the water as resistance, landing in a heel-ball-toe action and maintaining an upright stance. Pump your arms as if walking or jogging on land.

Once you have developed a good technique which is comfortable for you, aim to walk or jog underwater for between 20 to 40 minutes per exercise session.

Water aerobics has an added benefit — it enables you to burn up calories much more efficiently. Compare the following estimates of calorie consumption for a 30 minutes workout.

• Land walking: 135 calories
• Deep water walking 264 calories
• Jogging on land 240 calories
• Deep water jogging 340 calories

So, why not seek out classes in your local area?

Article courtesy of MediaPeak

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