WATER AEROBIC STEP

Many people already know about the benefits of swimming and water aerobics but there are many people who do not realize just how versatile water aerobics can be. Water aerobics is certainly a great form of exercise but is also great for its healing ability; people with physical limitations, illness or disabilities benefit greatly for aquatic exercise.

Just as aerobic exercise in general works to strengthen your heart, burn fat and tone the body water aerobics has the same benefits without added stress to the joints and bones.

Water dance aerobics, water jogging and walking and even exercises with a water aerobic step are effective activities that will propel you into better health.

The water makes our bodies more buoyant allowing us to perform the same workout as outside of water inside the water with less likelihood of injury. At one time step aerobics were for the aerobically fit only; however, using a water aerobic step in the water allows everyone to benefit from this great aerobic activity.

The deeper the water you are in, the more buoyant the body is and less stress on the body. Working out in chest deep water will support 85% to 90% of the weight of your body and stepping up on the water aerobic step, while continuing to work your lower half, creates little impact on the knees.

Most fitness centers offer water aerobics classes as well as step aerobics in water classes. A skilled instructor will turn up the music and teach the class a routine that can be used there at the center as well as at home if you are fortunate enough to have a pool. Classes such as beginning water exercise that consists of simply walking and moving around in the water.

Additionally there are complete dance aerobics classes for the water utilizes simple dance type routines done in various levels of water to allow for various fitness levels. Finally the step aerobics in the water use a water aerobic step that is weighted to remain in the water and not float. The intensity level is increased by working out in more shallow water and is performed much in the same way as standard step aerobics.

Water aerobics and land based aerobics both utilize a warm up and cool down period and the working segment of the class will last 35 – 45 minutes. Be sure to stretch before getting into the water to avoid muscle cramps.

The reasons that water aerobics is becoming more popular include the calories it burns; 450 – 700 calories per hour depending on how hard you work. Additionally, the water creates buoyancy that supports your body to protect your bones, muscles and joints and the water creates resistance so that the exercise is effective in the up motion as well as the down.

Water aerobics assists you in improving your flexibility and balance and even when working hard and sweating the water helps you to stay cool so you can work out longer.

With a little equipment such as a well fitting swim suit, and supportive water shoes you can begin on your aquatic exercise regime. Want to work a bit harder? Add a water aerobic step and you will be able to continuously increase the intensity of your workout as your body becomes more aerobically fit. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water, even when working out in it you will still need to drink it to stay hydrated.