You Can Keep Your Head Out of Water to Exercise
By Tom Herrin
The traditional idea of getting into the water may be to hold your breath and jump in. That works for some, but for others, simply getting into the water and moving around may work. We took a group of kids to the beach on a school trip once, and I was surprised at how they went about playing in the water. They seemed to be unsure of what to do once they got in. They just stood. My family and I always body surf at the beach. Once the kids watched us and figured out what we were doing, they seemed to enjoy themselves. The fact is that doing almost anything in the water can be pretty good exercise.
It Can Build Endurance
For anyone who has spent time with almost any activity in the water, they are likely well aware of the way it tests the body. If it is in the ocean, the waves add quite a bit of extra work simply keeping the body right. The natural resistance of the water can help the muscles to work and build up endurance since there is really no break in the resistance. People may get a workout and not even be aware of how much since it is pretty natural. After they get out, they will probably feel the effects of how much they have worked.
It Can Improve Flexibility
The natural movement of the water keeps continuous motion. This pushing and pulling effect of the water can apparently increase the range of motion for joints since it is causing them to move in different directions. This may be part of the reason so many people benefit from rehab sessions in water as they recover from injuries or other things that may have weakened the body.
It Has Built-In Motivation
As I referred to earlier, a lot of people simply have fun playing in the water. Even if they are just walking around in it, they will get some exercise that is not usually available on dry land. The water seems to invite people to play and move around. They do not have to swim, just move. When they are finished and tired, relaxing in or near the water provides an opportunity to relieve a little stress. Exercising in the water is pretty natural. If you like structured exercise, it is available in classes. If you just like playing, that works, too. The good thing is that even making the effort to remain standing may provide activity in itself.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Redlands, Calif.