Monday, October 28, 2013

Water Exercise: When It Hurts Too Much to Move

The golden-aged women taking a water-aerobics class at the local natatorium already know the benefits of water exercise. When traditional land-based exercises are not possible due to pain, muscle strain, osteoporosis, arthritis or other physical challenges, water exercise can help to improve your quality of life. Individuals with high blood pressure and/or diabetes are often advised to participate in aquatic exercises to better manage their disease. For many people, water exercise alone fulfills fitness goals and for some aquatic exercise facilitates a safe return to land-based exercises.
Water exercise doesn't necessarily mean signing up for a water-aerobic class - it can be done independently or under the care of a physical therapist. It's a good idea to make sure physical therapy in the pool is covered under your insurance plan.
The local natatorium keeps the water cool for swimming lessons, high school swim practice and swim meets, but during open swim hours individuals can jump in and exercise, or sign up for a class through the YMCA. Water therapies, however, have to be done in a heated pool, between 90-94 degrees, and are typically located in facilities that offer physical therapy. Check to see if classes or open swim times are available to the public.
Water exercise can accommodate all levels of fitness and is an excellent cardiovascular workout, but keep in mind that it may not be as beneficial for building bone strength. Water does provide resistance for muscle strengthening and conditioning, but the buoyancy of the water reduces weight bearing which necessary for building bone strength.
The resistance and support provided by the buoyancy of the water allows individuals to exercise with less pain, and the relaxing sound of being in the water adds enjoyment. For those able to access therapeutic temperatures feel the immediate comfort of the warmth in their joints and muscle tension is soothed. Stretching and movement becomes much easier, and it is common knowledge that a body in motion stays in motion.
You can simulate most exercises that can be done in a gym or on land in the pool. For instance, instead of walking on a treadmill you can walk laps in the pool. Sometimes people use water shoes so they don't slip. You can perform many types of stretches and you can even use buoyant weights.
In addition to providing physical benefits, water exercise can improve mental health. Swimming and exercising in the water can improve your mood and give you a feeling of well-being. It can decrease anxiety. Countless studies show that exercising can help improve your mood.
Water therapy has also been shown to be good for children with behavioral problems and is a good family activity.
Chronic pain can be debilitating, but try not to get discouraged. If you haven't tried water therapy, this may be what you need to do. If you hadn't thought about water therapy before, this may be an instance when taking some advice from your elders may really provide a lasting benefit.
At Home Fitness consultant Aaron Dorksen's blog deals with a variety of fitness topics, ranging from workout tips, motivational ideas and feature stories on how exercise impacts people's lives. Consult a doctor before making any significant changes in your exercise routine or diet. E-mail him with comments, questions or ideas for future blogs at aaron@athomefitness.com
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