5 Fun Pool Exercises to Boost Your Fitness Levels
If you’re looking to switch up your fitness routine and beat the heat this summer, taking your workout to the pool could provide the perfect solution. Swimming is a low-impact activity that is gentle on your joints, making it an excellent choice for individuals of all ages and fitness levels. Additionally, the resistance created by the water can help you build strength, increase endurance, and improve your overall health. In this post, we’ll explore five fun pool exercises that can help you boost your fitness levels while enjoying the coolness and tranquility of the water.
1. Aqua Jogging
One of the easiest and most effective ways to get started with pool exercises is aqua jogging. This workout involves jogging or running in the water while wearing a flotation belt around your waist to keep you afloat. Aqua joggers burn calories, tone muscles, and improve their cardiovascular endurance without the risk of impact injuries. You can adjust the intensity of aqua jogging by adjusting your speed and water depth. For example, jogging in deeper water provides greater resistance and burns more calories.
2. Water Aerobics
Water aerobics is a full-body workout that incorporates dance-like moves, resistance exercises, and stretching. It’s ideal for individuals who want to combine cardiovascular training with muscle toning and flexibility work. Water aerobics can also provide relief for people who suffer from joint pain or arthritis. It’s usually done in a group setting with music, making it a fun and social experience. Some water aerobics classes may also incorporate equipment such as water weights or pool noodles for added resistance.
3. Lap Swimming
Lap swimming is one of the most popular pool exercises that can help you improve your overall fitness and endurance. It’s a low-impact exercise that works your entire body, including your arms, legs, core, and back. Swimming regularly can help you burn calories, reduce stress, and improve your cardiovascular health. If you’re new to lap swimming, start with shorter distances and gradually increase your pace and endurance.
4. Pool Planks
Pool planks are a challenging exercise that can help you build core strength, stability, and balance. To do this exercise, place your hands on the pool’s edge, and extend your legs out behind you. Engage your core, and hold the plank position for 30-60 seconds. Repeat for several sets to feel the burn. Pool planks can be modified by adding leg lifts or arm raises to make them more challenging.
5. Pool Side Lunges
Pool side lunges are a great lower body exercise that targets your glutes, quads, and hamstrings. To perform this exercise, stand sideways facing the pool edge with your feet hip-width apart. Take a big step to the side with your right foot, bending your right knee as if you were sitting into a chair. Push back to your starting position and switch sides, then repeat for several sets. You can hold a pool noodle or water weight to add extra challenge.
Conclusion
Adding pool exercises into your routine can add variety and fun to your workout, while providing excellent health benefits. These five pool exercises can help you boost your fitness levels, improve your cardiovascular health, build strength, and reduce stress. So, next time you’re looking for a cool and refreshing way to get active, grab your swimsuit and head to the pool.