…is sometimes as important as doing it. Why, you ask? Because you’re encouraging others to do water aerobics, lap swimming, pool volleyball, learn to swim, dive, or scuba. And that might be all the motivation they need to open up a whole new world of exercise.
I had the happy good fortune to meet and talk with two other women while on vacation at the beach (near water, of course!). We were sitting on the ledge in the condo’s pool, enjoying extremely nice water temps on a sizzling hot July day. Turns out one of the women was a swimming instructor whose business taught 650 students a year. We connected over our shared love of water, and my water aerobics class and her swimming instruction. This in turn got the attention of another pool goer who joined in. We covered topics of conversation that I believe are helpful here:
Weight Loss
Exercise and diet, we all know the drill. But for some, due to weight issues, handicap, illness, or physical rehab/recovery, it is very difficult to exercise on land. Water fitness offers a perfect alternative.
First of all, it takes a load off, due to the displacement principle. When you’re in the water up to your waist you are only supporting 50% of your body weight. At chest level water, you are supporting only 20% of your body weight.
Second, it’s safer for fall risk individuals. If you fall, you’re hitting the very soft, very forgiving water, not the hard ground or solid pavement. Be sure to swim in a grounded pool with a trained lifeguard and/or instructor.
As the saying goes, the best exercise is the one you do. Especially for those of us who love the water, it almost doesn’t feel like exercise (I did say almost). The more you do, with sensible eating choices, the more weight you lose.
Getting In Shape
Getting in shape after 40 – or after 20 or 30 or any other number – can be a challenge. We live in a society driven by onscreen entertainment. We can and do sit for hours in front of TV screens, computer screens, and smartphones. Right now, while you’re sitting in front of your favorite smart screen, search for the nearest gym with a pool. Call them and get the scoop on membership, hours, and classes. Go take the tour, and join. Do this for YOU.
A note on weight-bearing exercise: Typically, water exercise and fitness are, by definition (see note above on displacement) not weight-bearing. For women especially, our doctors encourage us to do weight-bearing exercises. After much discussion, my gynecologist finally agreed with my internist that you can get the needed workout for building new muscle in the water. One key exercise here is running in the water. I do an hour’s worth of laps in the pool, running side to side, every day. I have strong abs and good muscle tone. So, I’m just saying, it is possible.
As another woman joined our discussion, she was eager to learn about water aerobics and its benefits. She lives in another southeastern state and is now going to look into any classes available in her area. She said it sounds like a good idea, and a lot of fun. I can’t agree more and I encourage you to do the same!
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