A Comprehensive Guide to Water Aerobics

If you’re looking for a low-impact workout that gets your heart rate up while simultaneously giving you the chance to build connections with like-minded people, then water aerobics may be the thing for you.

We put together a comprehensive guide to this fun, engaging fitness activity that is just the thing for anyone with limited mobility and those who love the pool!
 

What is Water Aerobics?

Water Aerobics involve doing aerobic movement in the pool. Examples include leg lifts, bicep curls, kickboard movements and water walking. You will typically do these movements in the shallow side of the pool in waist-deep water. Some movements involve neck-deep water and are a bit more challenging.
 

What Kind of Fitness is Water Aerobics?

Water Aerobics are a form of endurance training that help build strength and cardiovascular fitness. It’s excellent for working on your arms, legs, glutes, back and core. Their intensity can be altered to meet your fitness levels, and routines will raise your heart rate while simultaneously giving you a full-body workout.
 

Do I Need Any Equipment for Water Aerobics?

Yes, water aerobics generally involve using things like kickboards, pool noodles, foam weights, weight belts — and the pool, of course!
 

What Should I Wear to Do Water Aerobics?

Water aerobics involves moving around in the water a lot, so you’ll probably want to wear a comfortable, one-piece swimsuit that you can move freely in without worrying about revealing something you don’t want to. You might also consider wearing water shoes since you’ll be on your feet on the floor of the pool, plus a swimming cap if you want to keep your hair from getting wet.
 

Where Can I Do Water Aerobics?

You can do water aerobics on your own in any swimming pool, indoors or outdoors. If you’re not sure how, you can find routines on YouTube or via a web search. Many recreational centers and swim schools also offer water aerobics classes for a fee.
 

What Happens During a Water Aerobics Class?

Classes generally run 45 minutes to an hour and can be as intense or low-key as you want. Trained instructors will guide you through the movements, sometimes with music going to amp you up and make the class even more fun!
 

Who Benefits Most from Water Aerobics?

Anyone can benefit from water aerobics! They’re especially good for pregnant women, seniors, anyone suffering from chronic pain, fitness beginners and anyone who needs to perform low-impact exercises.
 

Are There Any Other Reasons to Try a Water Aerobics Class?

Beyond the fitness aspect, water aerobics classes give you the chance to connect with like-minded people who share your enthusiasm for the pool and fitness level. Many people find they make lifelong friends at water aerobics classes, particular if you sign up for one that caters to your age group.

Ultimately, water aerobics are the perfect kind of fitness for people of all ages and activity levels. As with any fitness activity, be sure to check with your doctor first to ensure you’re able to do it safely. Once you get the all-clear, take the splash and give water aerobics a try today!

 

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Author: Caitlin H
Diet-to-Go Community Manager

Caitlin is the Diet-to-Go community manager and an avid runner. She is passionate about engaging with others online and maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. She believes moderation is key, and people will have the most weight loss success if they engage in common-sense healthy eating and fitness.