Benefits of Aquatic Exercise

Aquatic exercise can be performed for relaxation, fitness, and physical rehabilitation. Aquatic exercise is a great way to stay active in cold winter months when the outdoors are too frigid for your regular exercise routines. The pool offers an oasis of comfort that can soothe your achy joints while you burn vast amounts of energy.

Other benefits of aquatic exercise can include:

Improvements in joint flexibility

Buoyancy offers a tremendous advantage because it reduces the effects of gravity allowing for increased joint range of motion.

Improved ease of movement

Your affected body part will float, making it easier and less painful to move. The warm water also helps to relax muscles that are sore or tight.

Increase in muscle strength

Water is 600-700 times more resistive than air which allows for strengthening of weakened muscles. Water resists rapid movement so equipment with increased surface area can be used to increase strength in the pool.

Decrease in pain

Immersion in warm water increases an individual’s comfort, by increasing blood supply to sore muscles and promoting relaxation. Weight relief to weakened body structures also creates additional comfort.

Improved balance

The uniform pressure of the water along with buoyancy provides support to your body which allows you increased time to react without the fear of falling or getting hurt.

Lethbridge and the surrounding area host many great pools for aqua-therapy. Follow this link for more information https://www.lethbridge.ca/Things-To-Do/Aquatics-Pools/Pages/default.aspx

Below is a simple exercise routine you could try at an open swim. Take it slow your first session and don’t be afraid to ask for help from the pool