Challenge Accepted!

 

 

 

I hear you when you say, “I’m not sure about water fitness. I have…challenges.” I’m glad you mentioned that, because in most cases water fitness can handle them.

 

Challenges come in all shapes and forms and can scare us with the fear of trying something new, even if it will help us. The way I ended up teaching water aerobics was because years ago a friend took me – kidnapped me – one Saturday morning and took me to a gym with a pool. 

 

 

I’ve always loved the water, but I wasn’t too excited about joining a class teaching water aerobics. Isn’t that an old lady exercise? Then she followed up by dragging me to a class the following week. My impressions were wrong and I was hooked.

 

What water lover can resist spending more time in a pool? And just think, in addition to conquering your challenges, you’re getting in shape. 

 

I had one goal when I started Water Fitness: Get rid of the flab under my arms. That’s all I wanted to do. I have far surpassed my goals and actually have a better body than I ever dreamed I would. It’s not perfect, but my biceps are firm, I’m at a good weight, and I feel great. 

 

So, let’s tackle some of the more common challenges. If I miss one you want discussed, send me a line in the comments. 

 

I can’t swim. No swimming necessary! You can easily find a water aerobics class that works out in shallow water or one that works out in deep water. And if you’re more comfortable using a life belt around your waist, you’re welcome to do that. In fact, for deep water exercise you’ll need a life belt.

 

What if you have limited mobility? I know a guy who is paralyzed from the waist down. Tim inspires me constantly. He gets in the water, and swims laps 2-3 times per week. The buoyancy of the water supports the body, making movements easier for individuals with limited mobility or those recovering from injuries.

 

I have joint pain and arthritis. Can I do the exercises? Probably. Water aerobics is low-impact exercise, which reduces the stress on joints and alleviates pain associated with conditions like arthritis.

 

I’m overweight. Hey, you’re in the right place. Water aerobics gives you a full-body workout that helps burn calories and promotes weight loss in a gentle yet effective manner. Ask me about sweating in the water. One of the most delightful experiences out there.

 

I was in a serious accident, and I’m rehabbing. Is the water good for rehabilitation? Oh my gosh, the water is FANTASTIC for rehab. The water displaces your weight, so in chest-high water you are only supporting 20% of your body weight. Water aerobics is often used as a part of rehabilitation programs to aid in recovery from injuries or surgeries. It offers a safe and supportive environment to rebuild strength and flexibility. And there are instructors who are professionally trained in working with people who are rehabbing.

 

 

I’m just not very coordinated. My balance is off. Balance can be affected by illness, injury, age, or even meds. Exercising in the water challenges balance and coordination, helping to improve these skills and reduce the risk of falls. In other words, your balance can vastly improve with water exercise. 

 

I’ve tried exercising in the gym. I overheat to the point I’m miserable. Well jump in and get wet! Exercising in water helps regulate body temperature in  individuals who struggle with overheating during traditional land-based exercises. Try it, the water’s just fine.

 

I have muscle wasting from a long illness. I hear ya’. I recovered from an extremely serious illness and had major muscle wasting in my arms and legs. I’ve found the resistance of water provides an excellent environment for building muscle strength and endurance, since water exercise targets various muscle groups simultaneously. I now have very firm arms and legs.

 

Friends, I call ‘em The Healing Waters. It’s not official, just my name for the results of exercising in the water. I encourage you, no matter what your challenge, to try it. Water exercise is a versatile and inclusive exercise option that’s suitable for individuals of all ages, fitness levels, and backgrounds.

 

And I’ll see ya’ in the water!