Aqua Aerobics
I would like to explore Aqua Aerobics in fitness. There are many who think that they “can’t get their heart rate up” when in the water or,”unless you are doing laps it is not a worthwhile cardio workout”. I’m here to tell you that it’s just NOT so!
First of all, when you get in the water, your heart rate automatically drops 10-12 beats per minute (bpm). As a result of a lower heart rate, you will have to work harder in the water. There are variables involved for the heart rate like, water temperature, depth of the water and humidity in the air. It’s a good idea to use a heart rate monitor.
A quick way to find your maximum heart rate is to take your age and subtract it from 220, then you will have an estimated maximum heart rate. Example: 220- (age) 40=180 (bpm). Whenever you exercise whether on land or in the water, you don’t want to go past that 180 bpm if you are 40 years old. You will then go into an anaerobic energy system and won’t be burning fat and could even burn muscle. Not a place you want your body to be.
AQUA Aerobics can help with your land workouts as well. For example, when you jog in the water up and down the pool, there is the resistance of the water. It will take more energy (burning more calories) to push through the water. After several sessions you will be surprised at how much your stamina has improved on land.
There are many different Aqua Instructors out there. Find one who is going to challenge your fitness level. An instructor should change speed, motion, direction and equipment so no 2 routines are the same. As a rule of thumb, Aqua Aerobics classes after work or late afternoon, have a little more intensity than the morning classes.
One final thought, not to be taken lightly, is that water exercises are very joint friendly. Especially if you indulge in deep water exercises. That thought is for another day and time. Aqua aerobics is for EVERYONE!! Give it a try!
Need a Heart Rate Monitor?
Polar FS2 Heart Rate Monitor Watch (Black)
