Aquatic exercise is an excellent low impact activity for individuals of all abilities. This form of fitness training can be done in either indoor or outdoor pools and consists of cardiovascular endurance and conditioning exercises. These include walking, jogging, jumping, dancing, swimming, kicking, and other continuous rhythmic activities that elevate metabolism and improve cardiovascular function .
Aquatic exercise is also a beneficial form of therapy, useful for a variety of medical conditions. The thickness of water provides for an exceptional source of resistance which is easily integrated into an aquatic exercise program. This gentle resistance is ideal for muscle strengthening without the need of weights. Resistance coupled with the water’s buoyancy allows a person to strengthen muscle groups with reduced joint stress that cannot be experienced on land. Along with improved muscular strength, aquatic exercise increases:
• Endurance
• Cardiovascular function
• Self-esteem
• Quality of life
• Circulation (the warmth of the water assists in relaxing muscles and vasodilates vessels, increasing blood flow to injured areas )
• Flexibility
• Range of motion
• Balance and coordination
Did you know that crossing ¼ mile in the pool burns the same amount of calories as one mile on land? Aquatic exercise provides for a dynamic workout, while placing little to no impact on the joints. For those experiencing any kind of pain or discomfort during physical activity, aquatic exercise and therapy might be a perfect solution.

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