Aquatic fitness is a refreshing, low-impact way to stay active. Water workouts can help you build strength, ease joint pain or simply enjoy moving in a supportive environment. Plus, aquatic exercise provides unique health benefits you won’t always get from traditional exercise. Here are four unique benefits of aquatic fitness and reasons you should try it.
Creates a Full-Body Workout
Exercising in water engages multiple muscle groups at once. Because of the natural resistance water provides, even simple movements like walking, kicking or arm lifts become more challenging. This creates a full-body workout that improves strength, flexibility and endurance without the need for heavy equipment.
Decreases Joint and Muscle Pain
Aquatic fitness is often recommended for people with arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or chronic pain. The buoyancy of water reduces stress on the joints while still allowing for effective movement. This makes aquatic workouts an excellent choice for rehabilitation, injury recovery or anyone looking for a gentler, yet effective way to exercise.
Aids in Stress Relief and Mental Health
Being in the water has a naturally calming effect. The soothing environment, combined with the gentle rhythm of aquatic movement, helps reduce stress and tension. Regular aquatic exercise can also boost mood, ease anxiety and support overall mental health, making it a great way to care for both body and mind.
Improves Balance and Coordination
Working out in water challenges your body to stabilize against gentle resistance. This helps to improve balance, coordination and core strength. For older adults especially, aquatic fitness can help reduce fall risk during exercise, helping to keep workouts safe and enjoyable.
Aquatic fitness offers a unique combination of strength training, joint protection and mental wellness you don’t find in other workouts. Whether you’re young, older, recovering or simply looking for variety, water workouts can help keep you strong, balanced and refreshed.
Reference:
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Swimming and Your Health.” CDC. May 8, 2024.
https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-swimming/about/index.html.
