The Pros and Cons of Water Aerobics

Water aerobics is one of the most interesting and effective ways of getting fit. Water has several properties that make this aquatic exercise both safe and enjoyable than those performed on land. However, as with any other form of exercise, this too has it share of advantages and disadvantages. Check them out before you actually take the plunge:

Advantages
Provides buoyancy and support: Water provides both buoyancy and support to your body. You are saved of all the jarring and pounding of joints, muscles and bones when in water. In fact, water aerobics provide relief from many types of pains and injuries.

Good for all ages: Water aerobics are good for all ages and sex. Water aerobics can be part of a rehabilitation programme for those who suffer from injuries and pain. It is particularly good for elderly people.

Fitness tool: Water is a good fitness tool as it provides more resistance than air, making you work harder. This eventually results in better muscle tone and endurance.

Calorie burner: Water aerobics are of great help if you want to get rid of that extra mass from your body. It is a good calorie burner and burns more calories than similar land-based activities because of water resistance. On an average you can burn 450-700 calories during one hour of aerobic activity.

Enhances flexibility: Water exercise can improve flexibility without causing undo pressure to joints (since the effect of gravity is less in water). You can move your joints more widely in water and this increases your flexibility in the long-term.
A Cool, cool experience: Exercising in water is more comfortable and cooler than land based exercises. While you exercise, water continuously cools your body.

Disadvantages

• Access to a pool is a must as water aerobics cannot be done just anywhere.
• You need a good instructor to derive maximum advantage from a water aerobics program.
• Drain on resources as you may have to become a member of some club.

Precautions

• Always consult your doctor before starting an exercise program.
• Never swim or exercise in the water alone. Even the most experienced swimmer can encounter an in-water emergency that requires the assistance of another individual.
• Know and confirm the depth of the water before jumping into it. Remember, jumping into the shallow water can cause severe injuries. Take all precaution before setting out into the water.
• Consult a doctor immediately in case of any injury and follow all precautions and medications for a quick recovery.

Finally then, enjoy your water workout but always keep it safe and free from injury.