Summer brings hot weather, beach trips, and outdoor activities. However, it also comes with the pressure to have a perfect summer body. While hitting the gym is always an option, it can become tedious and dull – especially in the warmer months.
The good news is that there’s another way to achieve your desired beach body – through aquatic exercises.
What are Aquatic Exercises?
Aquatic exercises are any physical activities performed in water. This can range from simple water walking to high-intensity interval training.
The buoyancy of water makes it a low-impact workout that’s gentle on your joints and muscles, perfect for those with injuries or arthritis.
Moreover, the resistance created by water helps you build strength and endurance. Due to the extra resistance, it can burn more calories than dry land exercises, making it an excellent option for weight loss.
The Benefits of Aquatic Exercises
Aside from its low-impact nature, aquatic exercises offer several benefits that can help you achieve your desired summer body:.
- Increases cardiovascular endurance
- Tones your muscles and helps build strength
- Burns more calories than dry land exercises
- Reduces stress on your joints and muscles
- Improves flexibility and range of motion
- Works your core muscles, helping you get that desired six-pack.
Types of Aquatic Exercises
Now that you know how beneficial aquatic exercises can be, here are some types of aquatic exercises you can try to help you get your perfect summer body:.
1. Water Walking and Jogging
Water walking and jogging are perfect for those who are just getting started with aquatic exercises. To do this, find a shallow area of the pool where you can stand comfortably.
Start walking or jogging from one side of the pool to the other, making sure to lift your knees high. This exercise is perfect for improving your cardiovascular health and toning your leg muscles.
2. Aqua Aerobics
Aqua aerobics is a group exercise class that’s performed in water. It involves any movement that you can do on land, but is modified for the water. Activities can include jumping jacks, leg lifts, and arm curls.
This exercise is a full-body workout that can improve your cardiovascular health, endurance, and strength.
3. Aqua Cycling
Aqua cycling is a new form of exercise that’s becoming increasingly popular. It involves stationary bikes submerged in water, allowing you to cycle while submerged.
This exercise is great for toning your leg muscles and is perfect for those who love cycling but want a low-impact workout.
4. Aquatic Yoga
Aquatic yoga combines the relaxation and mental benefits of traditional yoga with the resistance and buoyancy of water. This exercise can improve flexibility and range of motion while reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
5. High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
If you’re looking for a high-intensity workout that’ll get your heart rate up, HIIT in water is the perfect option. This exercise combines short bursts of intense activity with periods of rest.
It’s a great way to burn more calories in less time and improve your cardiovascular health.
6. Resistance Training
Resistance training is any exercise that involves using your muscles against resistance. This can be attained through weights, bands, or water. In water, you can use your own body as resistance by trying exercises such as push-ups, pull-ups, and squats.
It’s an effective way to build strength and tone your muscles.
Conclusion
By incorporating aquatic exercises into your workout routine, you can improve your cardiovascular health, strength, endurance, and get your desired summer body. So instead of spending hours in the gym, head to your local pool and get started today.