Water aerobics: 10 main health benefits

Water aerobics is a physical activity in which aerobic exercises are combined with swimming, which provides several health benefits, such as weight loss, improved circulation and strengthening muscles.

Classes last on average 50 to 60 minutes, with the water close to chest height, at a pleasant temperature, around 32ºC.

This type of activity is suitable for people of all ages, being great for people with back or heart problems, and can also be practiced by pregnant women with guidance from a certified professional so that the best exercises are recommended and avoided. injuries.

Main benefits

The main health benefits of water aerobics are:

1. Weight loss

Performing water aerobics on a regular basis promotes weight loss, as during the exercise it is possible to burn up to 500 kcal per hour depending on the intensity and duration of the class. Thus, it is possible to lose up to 1kg per week if combined with a balanced, low-calorie diet. Check out a diet to lose weight quickly and healthily.

2. Improved circulation

Water aerobics helps to improve circulation due to increased muscle contraction and aerobic activity, which results in improved heart function and, consequently, improved blood circulation.

3. Improved breathing

The exercises performed in the water aerobics class require the person to take deeper breaths and, therefore, one of the benefits of water aerobics is the improvement in breathing capacity.

4. Strengthening muscles

Water aerobics helps to strengthen muscles due to muscle contraction, which also helps to improve flexibility and strength as the activity is performed frequently.

5. Strengthening bones

Performing water aerobics exercises also helps to strengthen your bones, because it favors the absorption of calcium by your bones, making them stronger and preventing possible fractures, for example.

6. Improved flexibility

This activity is also great for improving the body’s flexibility, due to the increased range of movements that need to be performed.

7. Increased motor coordination

The exercises performed in the water aerobics class must be done rhythmically, moving the opposite arms and legs, which increases motor coordination capacity.

8. Preservation of joints

Water aerobics is an ideal activity for people who cannot overload their joints, being ideal for those who suffer from arthritis or osteoarthritis or are very overweight, for example.

9. Prevention of cardiovascular diseases

Water aerobics also helps prevent cardiovascular diseases by reducing heart rate and blood pressure, as well as improving blood circulation, leading to better efficiency in the heart’s work.

10. Promoting well-being

As this activity improves circulation, has no impact on joints, causes little or no muscle pain after classes and also allows socialization, it is great for making people feel good and healthy.

How to do water aerobics

To burn more calories and further strengthen your muscles and joints, the movements performed during a water aerobics class must be strong and small pool equipment can be used, such as floats, for example, which can be worn on the arms or legs.

Although the exercises are performed in the pool, it is important to ensure your body is well hydrated by drinking water, juice or tea right before and after class. Furthermore, it is important to wear sunscreen and a hat, especially if the class is held during the hottest hours of the sun.

When not indicated

Although water aerobics is considered safe for all ages and recommended in various situations, it is important that this activity is guided by a trained professional and that the exercises are appropriate to the person’s condition, as this makes it possible to avoid worsening symptoms.

Water aerobics is not recommended for people who have high skin sensitivity or allergies to chlorine, as this substance is applied to swimming pools to clean the water. Therefore, it is important to find out about the product used for cleaning.