Aqua aerobics

The benefits of participating in a water based programme.

Water has long been used as a medium for exercise both recreationally and to improve general fitness. Since the exercise boom in the late 1970's water based non-swimming activities have developed and increased in popularity. These classes can be designed to suit many different levels not only those who can swim. Indeed these classes are popular with less confident and non-swimmers. Water-based classes prove to be favourite amongst the elderly, pregnant and overweight as well as the fitter person as part of their cross training programme.

The physical benefits of a water based exercise.

Buoyancy

This is responsible for the reduction of gravitational pull on the body which can be as much as 90% when immersed, this apparent weightlessness reduces compression, stress on weight bearing joints and almost eliminates the risk of injury.

Resistance

Water is dense and offers resistance to movement in any direction, combined with the non existent effect of gravity, means all movements require concentric muscle action, eccentric muscle action is mostly eliminated, and reducing muscle soreness and stiffness often occurring in land based exercise. The resistance provided by water is 12 times greater than air, therefore any motion in water provides a greater overload than dry land, moving in water at speed is approximately 3 times as hard. This can be used as sports specific training for running as the lack of impact reduces the chances of injury.

Hydrostatic Pressure

Pressure of water on the legs will increase blood flow to the heart and aid Venus return. Also the pressure increases stroke volume thereby increasing cardiac output and improving circulation. Water pressure on an injured part will force fluid from the cell into the circulatory system and thus reduce swelling.

These are the three main elements that benefit the individual in any water-based activity. The classes held at Greenacre Leisure are suitable for any level of fitness from beginner to advanced and will improve co-ordination, balance and general fitness. All this from 45 - 60 minutes of fun!