Fitness Equipment for Swimming Pools

With the current popularity of aqua aerobics, it was only a matter of time before manufacturers introduced a full line of fitness products designed for the water sports enthusiast in all of us. From footwear to weights, the athlete can find it all online or at the local fitness store. Water aerobics are popular, successful and fun, so why not spend a little money and get the best equipment for your workout.

  1. Stationary Swimming Pool System

    • When the workout is too big for the pool it may be time to get this simple device. The stationary swimming pool system, available online from multiple retailers, sits in the water and tethers the user to the side of the pool. The swimmer only needs to wear a lightweight belt and the pole and tether system keep the swimmer in place while swimming. The movement is completely natural because the user is performing all the motions of swimming and simply being held back. This $80 to $100 device is simple to set up and allows full, low impact, aerobic swimming no matter how small the pool might be.

    Water Weights for Jogging and Aerobics

    • Water weights

      Similar to jogging weights this small device is attached to the wearer's arms, legs or waist to increase the intensity of the workout. Generally speaking the athlete would use these when swimming or attending other aqua aerobic classes however it's not uncommon for these to be used for water jogging around one's own swimming pool. These are available for purchase between $18 for a simple pair of wrist weights and $80 for the complete set of ankle weights, belt weight and aquatic dumbbells. They are often made of a comfortable foam to prevent wear to the weights in the water and can intensify a workout by adding additional strength training to it.

    Aqua Noodle - Inexpensive and Fun

    • Noodles

      Probably one of the least expensive and most used pieces of equipment used in swimming pools is the water noodle. This actually has several names Aqua Noodle, Aqua water noodle and often simply, Noodle, but is used to help achieve the aerobic workout positions in some classes. Ranging from $2 to $5 depending on size and quality, this equipment is easily the least expensive and easiest to add to the pool area. As a separate bonus, when it's not being used for aerobic fitness, the kids will love to play with it in the pool.

    Aquatic Workout Attire

    • Primarily the athlete picking out swimming attire is likely more concerned with the shoes worn in the pool than they are with the swimsuit choices out there. Unlike other workouts, that promote loose fitting clothes, aquatic workouts should have a tight fitting suit that's comfortable. Generally speaking a one piece is going to be a little better because it provides more body support. As far as shoes though, it definitely matters. To start, the shoe is going to need to be water safe. Usually a regular pair of "water shoes," "sea shoes" or "shower shoes" should be fine. There are also weighted shoes to again increase the intensity of the workout and these should be fine assuming they fit properly. You should not workout in bare feet unless it is a class where your feet do not touch the bottom of the pool.