Jump into Better Health with Water Exercise

If you are wanting to get into better shape and become more healthy, then think about getting in the water. Not only is water one of the most important substances in maintaining life, but it's also a great way to exercise.

Of course, water is as old as the earth, but it's only been in the last several years that it has provided a wonderful way to exercise. The buoyancy protects the body from the harsh impact on your joints, while it also makes movement easier.

The added resistance that water offers, which is 12 times higher than air, helps to work all your major muscle groups, and it's fun to boot!

You don't have to own your own pool to enjoy the many benefits of water exercise. Most all communities have a local YMCA or fitness clubs that include a pool. Parks and recreation departments also have pools open, with many offering special water exercise programs, or water aerobics.

Here are a few of the different water exercises that you can do to get yourself in better shape this year.

Pool Walking - This is a very simple and very effective water exercise. Stay in the shallow end of the swimming pool and walk from one side to the other. If you want to add more resistance to your workout, leave your arms down in the water and try walking like you normally would. You can really get a feel for this exercise.

Swim Laps - Naturally, swimming laps provides the most strenuous workout in the pool. Not only does it build strength and endurance, but it burns off plenty of calories and fat. The butterfly stroke will provide the most benefits of all.

Use A Kickboard - When you're in the pool, grab a kickboard and use it like you would a barbell. The water creates a lot of resistance for the kickboard.

Hold the kickboard perpendicular down at your side and move it up and down, You willll feel the resistance in your arms immediately. Next, move it out in front of you and do it with your biceps. This gives water exercise a whole new meaning.