The benefits of exercising in the water are many. Aquatic exercise can not only enhance your cardiovascular fitness, but when combined with a toning and strengthening segment, it can also improve your muscular endurance and overall strength. Because water provides buoyancy and support for the body, the likelihood of muscle, bone, and joint injuries is nearly eliminated when exercise is performed in the water. If you think that you are ready to take the plunge, read on to learn more about aquatic exercise and how you can use the water as a wonderful fitness tool. Aerobic water workouts incorporate a variety of rhythmic body movements and dance steps performed in the water.
Programs vary from basic to advanced.
In beginning programs, the participant learns to combine arm and leg movements in varying combinations. As water aerobics programs become more advanced, they incorporate more intricate dance and calisthenics movements. Water aerobics are usually led by a fitness instructor and may be performed to music. In some classes equipment such as kick boards, woggles, and hand buoys may be used. Many aerobic water programs include a toning and strengthening component, as well as the aerobic portion.