As you get older, many forms of exercise, such as running or squash might be hard on your joints and muscles, especially if you are new to getting fit. Instead you might want to try a different sort of workout that is easy on the body, but still burns calories, tones your muscles and elevates your level of fitness. Water aerobics is an excellent form of exercise if you have mobility issues, or you simply want something that is low impact. Most swimming pools offer a class, which is also a great opportunity to meet new people.

How does Water Aerobics Work?

Water aerobics uses the water’s natural resistance to push against – there is in fact 42% more resistance than air. This means that you can make as much effort as you want to in order to get fit. The natural buoyancy of the water takes the pressure off your joints, so even if you have mobility issues, it is gentle on your body. A recent study of 800 osteoarthritis patients, found that water aerobics was extremely good at helping to build up strength, particularly in the knees and hips. If you are on a budget, it is an inexpensive form of exercise during retirement. You only need a swimming costume – there is no specialist equipment. It is a good form of cardio too, that will raise your heart rate and improve your breathing. 

What about losing weight?

Water aerobics isn’t as effective at burning calories as other high energy sports such as running or soccer. However, depending on your weight, the water temperature and the volume of water  that you are pushing against, you can burn between 400 and 500 calories an hour. This is enough to achieve a gradual weight loss if you are eating sensibly and going to class once or twice a week.

Water aerobics is also proven to help reduce body fat. A recent study followed a group of people for 12 weeks. They took a 45 minute class twice a week. They didn’t do any other exercise apart from this, or change their diet. At the end of the 12 weeks, they all had reduced body fat, particularly in the upper limbs.

Water aerobics reduces stress

Not only is water aerobics good for your general level of fitness, but it’s also good for stress and anxiety. One of the reasons for this is that it lowers your blood pressure. All of the participants in the 12 week study has a reduction in systolic blood pressure. Another Polish study from 2007 found that water aerobics boosted mood, even more so for women.

Water aerobics is a good form of cardio exercise that will raise your heart rate and improve your body shape. It can help you to lose weight and improve your general fitness. It is perfect if you want to try a gentle form of exercise that is easy on your joints, but extremely effective.