Top 10 Benefits of Water Aerobics

     2011 is just around the corner! For me, every year is the same old thing. Gym memberships start selling like hot cakes and all of the treadmills and ellipticals become occupied. While part of me wants nothing more than to get my turn on the 'rat wheel' over with; another part of me wishes there was something different I could do to change up my workout and make it more interesting (and more likely for me to stick with it through out the year, or at least until it is nice enough to go back outside). These are only some of many reasons to try water aerobics. Water aerobics can be defined as a non-weight bearing (easy on the joints) resistance and aerobic exercise performed in shallow water. It has evolved from just walking or jogging forward and backward in the water to jumping jacks and popular cross-country skiing movements.
     Water equipment has also become more popular. Water weights, floating belts, and other useful equipment are used to increase water resistance as well as help with flotation and balance. Water aerobics can be performed just about anywhere; from health and fitness clubs to public or private swimming pools to even shallow lakes. All you really need is the motivation and dedication to splash around a little bit (warm weather wouldn’t hurt either).
Benefits of Water Aerobics:

1. Non-weight bearing exercise
2. Improves muscular endurance
3. Improves core strength and endurance
4. Great exercise for pregnant women
5. Improves flexibility
6. Improves cardiovascular conditioning
7. Burns enormous amount of calories
8. Keeps the body cool during exercise
9. Fun and enjoyable exercise
10. Great way to modify or spice up normal routine

Safety can be a huge issue when it comes to combining water with exercise, so be sure to take note of these safety tips!
Water Aerobics Safety Tips:

1. Contact physician before starting program
2. Make sure lifeguard is on duty
3. Know your limits (listen to your body)
4. Give yourself space for movement
5. Stay hydrated
6. Be aware of wet surfaces while WALKING around pool area
7. Properly stretch before and after exercise
8. Make sure instructor knows your health background if you are at risk
9. Get CPR certified
10. Use sunblock if you are outdoors