Many people often ask if aquatic exercise is an effective form of training if your goal is weight loss, the answer? Absolutely! Here are 4 reasons why:
More Resistance:
Put quite simply, it takes more energy to push your body through water than through air because of the resistance that water provides. The more energy you use, the more calories you will burn. It is estimated that the average 30 minute pool workout burns approximately 300 calories. Add drag resistance equipment into the mix and you are going to be increasing resistance and burning EVEN MORE calories!
Low impact:
Because of waters unloading properties, aquatic exercise significantly reduces the stress on joints, bones and muscles, making it a very safe and effective way to workout for those who are overweight or have mobility issues and need a low impact workout option.
Long Term Solution:
Whilst there is no "one-size fits all" solution to diet or exercise, more and more research is demonstrating that light intensity aquatic exercise with minimal impact, combined with the hydrostatic pressure of water can not only assist in weight loss, but may also have enhanced recovery on injuries and muscle soreness. This makes it easier for people to workout on a long-term basis without the need for multiple days off due to sore muscles. As with any program, it needs to be a lifestyle change that is realistic in order to deliver results that are easily maintained.
Become Instantly Lighter:
Exercising in the water is the fastest way to lose 70% of your bodyweight!! When performing exercises chest deep in water, you only weigh 30% of your total body weight, making you feel lighter, and allowing individuals to perform exercise easier.
According to Dr Rick McAvoy (PT, DPT, CSCS) the key to training in the water for weight loss is to make sure you are training at the correct intensity. Often because of waters supportive properties, people tend to go with the water, as opposed to against it's resistance. We recommend incorporating resistance equipment and following a program such as Cardio Burn that includes compound upper and lower body movements to help build strength and endurance, coupled with high intensity exercises that will boost your metabolism and help you burn more calories.
