December 2020

Water Exercise

Even though the weather outside may be "frightful" as the song goes, it might be worth relaxing in a local "Y" or other facility that has a pool. 

Exercising in water can improve your cardiovascular fitness and overall strength, and greatly reduce your likelihood of injury from exercise. Check with your MD first before signing up.

People of all ages and conditions can often participate in water exercise. Much less stress is placed on the body's joints in the water, making it safer and easier for people with arthritis, back and neck conditions, and excess weight--to utilize this exercise. You are also less likely to experience soreness after exercising in water.

Swimming in an excellent form of exercise, but water aerobics has the advantage of putting you through a group of exercises which move all your joints and muscles.

Your massage therapist or other health care practitioner may be able to refer you to water aerobics and other water exercise classes in your community.

Water Aerobics

​Uses a variety of rhythmic movements in the water, using the whole body and combining arm and leg movements in varying exercises
Increases intensity gradually, varying from beginning to advanced
Can be conducted in both waist-to-chest high and deep water
Includes toning, strengthening, and aerobic exercises
Usually includes kicks, leg swings, knee lifts, squats, and marching or jogging
Begins with learning correct body position and coordination of specific movements
Is cooler that working out on land
Often involves working with a supportive group of people who face challenges similar to yours

For Arthritis Sufferers

If you suffer from arthritis, you may want to try exercising in warm water. Warm water helps your muscles relax, which can relieve pain. Regular exercise helps to improve the flexibility of your joints and your overall strength and fitness. Combining the two in warm water exercise can be a very effective method of managing the discomforts of arthritis. If your local pool or club only offers cool water pools, warm water pools are often available through physical therapy facilities. Ask your physician for advice. 

Adapted from Educational Handouts for Self-Care, Information for People