The Many Benefits of Water Exercise

Making use of water to get need exercise is becoming more and more popular today. It has long been known and may even be instinctual for those who are experiencing various types of joint and muscle pain find relief in water. The activity of water aerobics is gaining popularity today as people are realizing the many benefits it offers.

You can find water aerobic classes in most communities including your local chapter of the YMCA. You do not need fancy equipment to take part in water aerobics and any age can participate. Individuals can get back into shape easily without the treat of injury to joints, muscles, and tendons. Water exercise is of benefit to patients with multiple sclerosis, heart patients, arthritis patient, patients with back injuries, those who are obese and more. Water exercise is a safe, fun, and rejuvenating means of exercise for everyone.

You can take part in water exercise in pools as well as in hot tubs or Jacuzzis. When the body is in warm water the muscles tend to relax, and blood circulation increases. Water freely acts as a resistance to body movements and in return can build the strength of the muscles. When exercising in water you will notice that it requires less energy, and that movements feel effortless. Water exercise reduces pain and encourages muscle relaxation as well.

Although warm water is great for muscle relaxation, when it is extremely hot, it can become unsafe. This is especially true for children as well as older adults. Setting the temperature of a pool to between 84-88 degrees is the preferred temperature for water exercise. If you are in a hot tub and are not going to be participating in vigorous exercise, you will be able to tolerate increased temperatures. You will be able to adjust temperature to your preference, however, it is recommended that the temperature range be 98-104 degrees, and the time in the spa approximately 15 minutes.