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If you are looking
for a good all-around form of aerobic exercise, why not try
water aerobics?
Running, jogging
and walking underwater in a pool not only strengthens the leg
and hip muscles - the quadriceps, hamstrings and gluteals - but
helps to develop cardiorespiratory fitness.
If you are a
novice to this form of exercise, the key is to take it easy at
the start. At first, lightly exercise in the shallow end --
walking at this stage will be enough. As your confidence
improves, move gradually move to thigh-deep then chest deep
water, increasing your speed your speed as you do so. Whilst
moving, aim to use the water as resistance, landing in a
heel-ball-toe action and maintaining an upright stance. Pump
your arms as if walking or jogging on land.
Once you have
developed a good technique which is comfortable for you, aim to
walk or jog underwater for between 20 to 40 minutes per exercise
session.
Water aerobics
has an added benefit -- it enables you to burn up calories much
more efficiently. Compare the following estimates of calorie
consumption for a 30 minutes workout.
Land walking: 135
calories
Deep water
walking 264 calories
Jogging on land
240 calories
Deep water
jogging 340 calories
So, why not seek
out classes in your local area?
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