Content
Water aerobics is a physical activity in which aerobic exercises are combined with swimming, which provides several health benefits, such as weight loss, improved circulation and strengthening of muscles, for example.
Classes last an average of 50 to 60 minutes, with the height of the water close to the chest, in a pleasant temperature, around 32ºC, for example. This type of activity is suitable for people of all ages, being great to practice during pregnancy or in old age.
The main health benefits of water aerobics are:
1. Weight loss
Performing water aerobics on a regular basis favors weight loss, since during the exercise it is possible to burn up to 500 kcal per hour depending on the intensity and duration of the class. Thus, it is possible to lose up to 1 kg per week if combined with a balanced diet and low in calories. Check out a diet to lose weight quickly and in a healthy way.
2. Improved circulation
Water aerobics helps to improve circulation due to increased muscle contraction and aerobic activity, which results in improved heart function and, consequently, improved blood circulation.
3. Improved breathing
The exercises performed in the aqua aerobics class make the person have to perform deeper inspirations and, therefore, one of the benefits of aqua aerobics is the improvement of the breathing capacity.
4. Strengthening the muscles
Water aerobics helps to strengthen muscles due to muscle contraction, which also helps to improve flexibility and strength as the activity is performed frequently.
5. Strengthening of bones
Performing aqua aerobics exercises also helps to strengthen the bones, because it favors the absorption of calcium by the bones, making it stronger and preventing possible fractures, for example.
6. Improved flexibility
This activity is also great for improving the flexibility of the body, due to the increased range of movement that is necessary to perform.
7. Increased motor coordination
The exercises performed in the aqua aerobics class should be done in a rhythmic way by moving the opposite arms and legs, which increases the motor coordination capacity.
8. Preserving the joints
Water aerobics is an ideal activity for people who cannot overload their joints, being ideal for those who suffer from arthritis or arthrosis or are very overweight, for example.
9. Prevention of cardiovascular diseases
Water aerobics also helps to prevent cardiovascular diseases by decreasing heart rate and blood pressure, in addition to improving blood circulation, leading to better efficiency of the heart's work.
10. Promotion of well-being
As this activity improves circulation, has no impact on the joints, causes little or no muscle pain after classes and even allows for socialization, it is great for the person to feel good and healthy.
How to do water aerobics
In order to burn more calories and strengthen your muscles and joints even more, the movements performed during the water aerobics class must be strong and small swimming equipment such as floats can be used, for example, which can be used on the arms or legs.
Although the exercises are performed inside the pool, it is important to ensure good hydration of the body by drinking water, juice or tea just before and after class. In addition, it is important to wear sunscreen and a hat, especially if the class is held in the hottest hours of the sun.