Are you tired of the usual boring workout routines at the gym? Have you ever considered doing a water workout to lose weight? If you haven’t, it’s time to dive into this refreshing and challenging way of shedding pounds.
What is Water Workout?
Water workout, also known as aqua aerobics or water aerobics, is a low-impact exercise done in a swimming pool.
It’s a type of aerobic exercise that involves movements that use water resistance to strengthen muscles, increase cardiovascular fitness, and improve flexibility. It’s a great way to lose weight and work out your whole body without straining your joints.
How Does Water Workout Help You Lose Weight?
Water is denser than air, which means that you have to work harder to move your body through it. This in turn burns more calories.
According to a study conducted by the American Council on Exercise, a 150-pound person can expect to burn at least 400 calories per hour doing water aerobics.
Water workout is also a total body workout since it engages all the major muscle groups such as the arms, legs, abs, and back.
It’s a great way to build muscle mass, which in turn increases your metabolism, helping you burn more fat even after you’ve finished your workout.
What Are the Benefits of Water Workout?
Aside from burning calories and losing weight, water workout has a host of other benefits for your body and overall well-being. Here are some of them:.
Low-Impact Exercise
Water workout is a low-impact exercise, meaning that it’s easy on your joints. If you have arthritis, back problems, or are recovering from an injury, water workout can be a great alternative to other forms of exercise.
Increased Flexibility
Water has a therapeutic effect on your joints and muscles, making them more flexible and easier to move.
A study published by the Journal of Sports Sciences found that participants who did water workout were able to improve their range of motion more than those who did land-based exercises.
Reduced Stress and Anxiety
Swimming has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind and body. When you’re in the water, you’re forced to focus on your breathing and your movements, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
Better Cardiovascular Health
Water workout is a form of cardiovascular exercise, which means that it strengthens your heart and lungs.
A study published in the American Journal of Cardiology found that participants who did water aerobics for six months were able to significantly improve their cardiovascular fitness.
What Exercises Can You Do in Water?
There are a variety of exercises you can do in the water to lose weight and work out your whole body. Here are some of them:.
Water Jogging or Running
Jogging or running in the water is a great way to get your heart rate up and burn calories. You can do this by moving your legs as if you’re running on land while keeping your upper body upright and your arms by your side.
Try to do this for at least 30 minutes to get the best results.
Water Cycling
Water cycling is a low-impact exercise that strengthens your leg muscles and improves your cardiovascular fitness. You can do this by cycling your legs while holding onto the pool’s wall.
To make it more challenging, you can use a pool noodle and cycle your legs while floating on the water.
Water Walking
Water walking is a great exercise for beginners or those with limited mobility. To do this, simply walk around the pool while keeping your head and shoulders above the water. You can also add some arm movements to work out your upper body.
Water Aerobics
Water aerobics are a series of exercises done in the water that target different muscle groups and provide a challenging cardiovascular workout. Examples of water aerobics exercises include jumping jacks, leg lifts, and arm circles.
Tips for a Successful Water Workout
Here are some tips to ensure that you get the most out of your water workout:.
Wear the Right Gear
Make sure that you wear proper swimwear when doing water workout. This will make it easier for you to move around in the water. You can also wear water shoes to prevent slipping and protect your feet.
Drink Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated is important when doing any form of exercise, including water workout. Make sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout to prevent dehydration.
Don’t Overdo It
Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workout. Don’t push yourself too hard and listen to your body. If you feel any pain or discomfort, stop the exercise immediately.
The Bottom Line
Water workout is a fun, challenging, and refreshing way to lose weight and improve your overall health and well-being. It’s a low-impact exercise that’s great for people of all ages, fitness levels, and abilities.
Give it a try and see how it can help you achieve your fitness goals.