Did winter sap your energy and challenge your best intentions? We have all been there!
Regular exercise is one of the most effective ways to promote health and wellbeing, but running, going to the gym or group sport isn’t for everyone, particularly if you have mobility issues of any type, or are returning to exercise after a period of time away (ie, after a winter hibernation). Aquarobics is a great way to exercise – and it’s so much fun!
Water is 15 times more resistant than air, so many people use water resistance training when injured to maintain their cardiovascular fitness with less impact and less stress on joints, bones, and muscles due to the water’s buoyancy.
The support provided by the water also makes it an ideal environment for post workout recovery and stretching, and provides relief for sufferers of arthritis, back pain, heart disease, obesity, fibromyalgia, and multiple sclerosis.
Aquarobics isn’t just for seniors (as it has sometimes been perceived) – this is a myth I like to bust! Aquarobics can be a highly challenging and effective workout regardless of your age, gender or fitness level!
There are a range of classes in both shallow and deep water for all ages, plus gentle classes for seniors or rehab, and options for pre and post natal women, with a group of fun and friendly instructors.
The beauty of Aquarobics is that you can work at your own pace, and that the exercise is low impact, so much kinder to knees, hips, backs and ankles. Just as importantly – it’s set to music, is great fun, mood boosting, non intimidating and very social – providing wonderful benefits for both body and mind! But I warn you – Aquarobics is addictive! Just ask the participants who have been coming along for five, 10 and in some cases 20 years!
Prefer to exercise solo? Lap swimming is the ultimate all-in-one exercise, working most muscles in the body with every stroke, increasing flexibility and muscle endurance. Muscles are strengthened and toned as a result of water resistance, core strength is improved, and the nature of breathing whilst swimming promotes greater lung capacity. Lap swimming can also be quite meditative and provide a space of calm without the distractions of the outside world.
Whichever option you choose, please observe basic swim safety and enjoy your water workouts this spring.
