Exercise is an important part of any weight loss plan, and if you're like most people, you have an easier time sticking to exercise plans that you actually enjoy. That's where water exercise comes in. Exercising in the water is fun, can be very beneficial for weight loss, and is also gentle on your body.
The Benefits of Water Exercise for Weight Loss
When you have weight to lose, many common, high-impact exercises can be hard on your body. Running, for instance, will put a lot of strain on your knees and ankles because those joints are bearing some excess weight. When you exercise in the water, the water takes the stress off of your joints.
In the water, you can exercise for longer, since you won't be plagued by joint pain. Without the joint soreness after your workouts, you will be more motivated to work out in the water again, so you're more likely to stick to a consistent exercise plan. This should help enhance your weight loss efforts in the long run.
Water exercise is also fun! Who doesn't love putting on their favorite bathing suit and water shoes and then plunging into the cool, blue water? When exercise is fun, you're more likely to stick with it, and that's one key to successful weight loss. Most water exercise is done in groups, too, and working out with friends just adds to the enjoyment. Or, you may have an opportunity to make new friends who can accompany you on your weight loss journey.
Water exercise is also a full-body exercise. Even when you're doing a movement that focuses on your arms or on your legs, the other parts of your body are working against the water to keep you buoyant. By working every muscle in your body, you get to tone and build every muscle in your body. Adding some muscle mass will increase the number of calories you burn throughout the day, even when you're resting — and this can help you lose weight.
Good Water Exercise Options
Swimming is the first form of water exercise that most people think of. And indeed, swimming laps will burn calories and aid in your weight loss journey. However, there are a few other more engaging options worth trying.
If you're not comfortable in deep water, you can take a shallow water fitness class. In this type of class, you'll stand in water that goes up past your waist, so there won't be much impact on your joints as you perform various kicks, squats, steps, and other moves.
There are also deep water fitness classes, which take place in water that is deeper than you are tall. In these classes, you're typically anchored to some type of flotation device that keeps you from sinking below the water's surface as you perform various moves.
In both shallow and deep water settings, you can find an array of different classes. There are Zumba classes that have a dance-like format and are set to music. Then, there are circuit classes during which you perform a series of exercises several times while following along with a leader. Try a few different classes, and see what feels right. The best water exercise class for weight loss is one that you love and will stick with, week after week.
If you're going to try water exercise for weight loss, you need the right gear! Check out the chlorine-resistant options from H2O Wear. From swimsuits, to cover-ups, to water shoes, we offer everything you need to stay comfortable during your water exercise classes.
