If walking, biking, or swimming are your go-to workouts, you’re doing wonders for your heart and legs—but what about your shoulders and core?
These areas are crucial for balance and everyday strength—especially if you spend time at a desk, behind the wheel, or experience tightness in your upper back. But many popular workouts don’t do enough to strengthen these key muscle groups. That’s where the right kind of aquatic resistance comes in.
Why Shoulder and Core Strength Matter More Than You Think
Every time you stand tall, carry groceries, reach for a high shelf, or get up from a chair, you’re relying on your core and shoulders. When these muscles are under trained or stiff, even basic movements can feel harder than they should.
And if you’re not specifically targeting them, they won’t get stronger. That’s why adding small water dumbbells to your pool workouts is a game-changer.
The Power of Small Water Dumbbells
Unlike those oversized foam weights that can throw off your form, small water dumbbells (or “hand buoys”) are lightweight yet effective. Their streamlined shape adds just enough drag in the water to create resistance that activates your core and upper body—without stressing your joints.
You’ll get:
● Better control
● Full-body engagement
● And a boost in both stability and strength
All while moving in the comfort of the water.
Try This Move: Water Dumbbell Jump for Core + Shoulder Stability
Want to feel the difference right away? Try this fun and surprisingly powerful interval set:
Setup:
● Hold a small dumbbell in each hand
● Wrap your hand around the bar—no tight squeezing
● Let the buoys rest gently on the water’s surface
The Move:
● Jump your feet wide and narrow (like a bent-knee jumping jack)
● Then jump side-to-side, feet moving together
● Keep your upper body steady as your legs move—your shoulders and core will do the work of stabilizing
Make It a 3-Minute Interval:
1. Wide + narrow jumps – easy pace (30 sec)
2. Wide + narrow jumps – moderate pace (30 sec)
3. Side-to-side jumps – easy pace (30 sec)
4. Side-to-side jumps – moderate pace (30 sec)
5. Combo: side-to-side + wide-narrow – easy pace (30 sec)
6. Combo: side-to-side + wide-narrow – moderate pace (30 sec)
👉 Watch the move in action
This short interval builds strength, cardio endurance, and control—with no impact on the joints.
Build Strength That Shows Up in Real Life
If you want to feel stronger getting out of bed, carrying bags, climbing stairs, or standing tall at the end of the day—this is the kind of training that helps.
Laurie Denomme’s Wavemakers program includes full-length aquatic workouts designed specifically for small water dumbbells. Each session helps you build real, usable strength and mobility—while moving in your feel-good range.
