How to Use a Home Pool for Exercise

Use a home pool for exercise just like you would use a gym -- for cardio, toning and strength training exercises. Water exercises are low impact and easy on the joints but deliver the same results as a high-impact exercise. According to Fitness magazine, treading water vigorously for one minute can burn as many calories as running for one minute. Burn calories and fat by swimming through a challenging exercise routine in your home pool. Work your arms, back, chest, abs, butt and hamstrings.

Things You'll Need

  • Beach ball
  • Kickboard
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Instructions

    • 1

      Tread water in the deep end of the pool, making small circles with your arms outstretched in front of you and your hands cupped. Lift your right leg straight in front of you at a 90-degree angle to your torso while you reach for the bottom of the pool with the toes of your left foot, while keeping your head above water. Hold the pose for five seconds, then switch legs and hold for five seconds. Alternate leg lifts from your right side to your left side for 30 seconds. Rest for 30 seconds, then repeat.

    • 2
      A beach ball adds resistance to your workout.

      Float on your back and hug the beach ball to your chest. Roll counterclockwise 360 degrees. Catch your breath, then repeat. Do 12 repetitions.

    • 3

      Swim one freestyle lap, one backstroke lap, one freestyle lap, one kickboard lap, one freestyle lap and one sprint lap. Cool down with two easy breaststroke laps.