If you’re new to water workouts — or even if you’ve been doing them for years — there’s one piece of equipment that might surprise you: gloves.
At first glance, water gloves seem optional. Many assume they’re for people who want to “make things harder.” That’s what I used to think, until one session in the pool changed everything.
One of my students was returning to class after time off. She lives with chronic back pain, so we kept the routine familiar and gentle. But something was off. Her movements were tight, abrupt. It was like her body was fighting itself. Her hands were especially rigid — bracing at the end of every motion.
I handed her a pair of gloves.
What happened next? Total transformation. Her movement smoothed out. Her shoulders softened. Her body stopped resisting and started flowing. It was like she had connected with the water — finally able to feel what was happening around her.
Why Gloves Work
Water gloves don’t just add resistance. They increase surface area, which slows down your movement and enhances feedback. This makes every move more intentional.
In short: they help you sense what’s happening. And when you can feel the water, you can use it more effectively.
This is especially powerful for beginners. Gloves aren’t about making things harder—they’re about making things better.
- They help your joints move more fluidly
- They encourage better body awareness
- They promote smoother, more connected motion
Gloves give your brain more information about your body’s position and timing. That’s how better form is built. And better form means safer, more effective exercise—whether you’re easing back from pain, working on balance, or just getting started.
Think of gloves as a translator between your body and the water. They help your muscles “talk” to each other.
Try This: Arm Curl with Gloves
Start with your arms at your sides, palms facing forward. Slowly bend your elbows and curl your hands toward your shoulders. Notice the drag from the gloves—it helps you feel every part of the motion.
Want to see how it looks? Watch this arm curl focused workout with gloves.
So yes, gloves are great for beginners, but not because they’re easier — it’s because they teach you to move better. And when you move better, you feel better, it’s that simple.
Want to learn more about how to use gloves? Discover Wavemakers and start to move better, feel better, and live better today.
