Fitness Directory

Dive in with Water Aerobics

If you are looking for a good all-round form of aerobic exercise try water aerobics. Water aerobics include a variety of rhythmic body movements and dance steps performed in the water and can be performed with music. The program starts with the basic arm and leg movements in various combinations and as you become comfortable with movements in the water, advances to more difficult body movements.

• Water exercises are refreshing and rejuvenating besides enhancing cardiovascular fitness, aid in toning and endurance training apart from increasing overall strength and stamina.
• Secondly, since these exercises are performed in about chest deep water you don't have to know swimming necessarily. Thus even non-swimmers can do these.
• The chances of injury are minimized since water provides buoyancy and support to your body. Compared to other land workouts, injuries are a rare sight in water aerobics. In fact water workouts help to relieve many pains and injuries and provide a feeling of comfort.

Water aerobics are beneficial to people of all age and sex. Even the elderly can make a splash of it as there is less stress on the body and fewer chances of injury. People who are recovering from injuries or pains or just don't want to exercise on land usually find water aerobics a better choice.

A good water aerobic exercise programme lasts for about 40-50 minutes, but don't forget to include a warm up, cool down and some stretching. Are you now ready to take the plunge? Here's what you will need:

A Swim suit: An absolute necessity. Get one if you don't have it and make sure that you try it on and make sure that it is comfortable before your first water aerobic class.

Aqua shoes: They provide extra stability and protection when you are in water.

Goggles: To protect your eyes from the chlorine in the water and other chemicals in the water.

Swimming cap: To lessen the harsh effects of pool chemicals in your hair.

Flotation Belts: Helps to keep you in proper alignment and are used when exercising in the deep.

Kickboards: One of the most popular water tool, they support your body and add resistance for water workouts.

Now that you've got all your gear, what are you waiting for? Just dive in and splash your way to good health.