Why Are Water Aerobics Good for You?

Water aerobics provides a low-impact cardiovascular workout that uses all muscles in the body, making it an ideal routine for weight loss and fitness. Water is denser than air and provides a cooling effect to regulate overexertion and overheating. Water aerobics classes don't involve swimming laps and are conducted in group sessions so participants can increase their comfort level in the water under the supervision of an instructor as they improve fitness, mobility and endurance.

  1. Significance

    • Water aerobics consist of a series of classes conducted in the shallow end of a pool so participants can stand up. Participants wear bathing suits and generally minimal to no swimming experience is required. Classes are usually about 45 minutes long, led by an instructor. Some classes use accessories, such as light weights, webbed gloves or flotation devices. to provide resistance for muscles. Water aerobics exercises involve repetitive motion to build flexibility and attain an aerobic state for cardiovascular benefits. Pool exercises use each person's natural buoyancy for support.

    Function

    • Water aerobic exercises include running, walking and jogging to improve muscle function and flexibility. The density of water provides support for balance and to offset the effect of gravity on joints. Water provides a weighted environment that produces a multidimensional effect on the body requiring multiple sets of muscles to work. As a result, the movement through water is at a slower pace than on land. Many people with limited range of movement or back problems keep fit through water aerobics.

    Benefits

    • The benefits of water aerobics include cardiovascular fitness and rehabilitation. Water aerobics exercises can be adjusted according to each person's level of experience, range of motion and comfort in the water. People with back problems, arthritis, injuries or disabilities can maintain a fitness routine through simple exercises in the water. The motion through water is slow and deliberate and the cooling effect of water reduces overheating so overexertion can be managed. Water aerobics supports weight loss by burning more calories per hour than land-based activities.

    Considerations

    • Water aerobics classes may be limited in availability based on location and type of pool (for example, outdoor pools may be open only during spring and summer months). Indoor facilities can provide regular sessions to promote a fitness routine. Since pools must be maintained, water aerobics classes are generally conducted in paid group sessions. Warm water reduces muscle cramps, so pool temperature should be considered. Additional time for changing and showering at the facility before and after the class is also needed.

    Expert Insight

    • Most physicians recommend water activities such as swimming or water aerobics for patients to regain flexibility and strength while recovering from an injury. Water supports approximately 80 percent of a person's body weight, which reduces stress on joints. Water aerobics exercises can burn about 400 calories per hour.