For active seniors, staying in shape can be tricky. Running is fantastic for your heart and mind but comes with some limitations. It is vigorous and may cause soreness in your joints, knees, and ankles.
Access to water, be it in the beautiful Finger Lakes region or a backyard pool, is a game-changer to your physical fitness. It is also tons of fun!
Water training can give you a comprehensive full-body workout without the baggage of joint pain and muscle deterioration. Physical therapists also swear by water exercise and its benefits.
Water workouts burn up to three and a half times the calories as those on land. You can put in a hard workout with little to no damage to your joints.
These 3 simple water exercises work well with water beginners or seasoned vets. So grab your swimsuit and dive right in. But hurry, Northeastern summers go by fast!
Water Jogging
If running is a passion, move it off the road and into the water. Jogging side-to-side in the pool is a great cardio workout. Incorporating big wide arm swings will up the ante and build arm strength too!
Statistically, one in three 65-year-olds fall, and that number increases with age. Water jogging is the safest alternative in the game and an ideal setting to push yourself.
Arm Curls
Another “land exercise” that works well in the pool is basic arm curls. You can increase the burn with water weights or just use the water itself. Either way, your arms will feel the natural resistance building your muscles after your first set.
Arm curls aren’t necessarily a cardio exercise, but with the resistance of the water, you are able to curl faster without the risk of injury.
Leg Swings
Seniors need flexible hips for stronger confident movement and these swings are the answer. Swing your legs to the front, side, and back and hold them for a five-count to build muscle. Feeling extra buff? Hold them for ten seconds.
Your hips and legs are the nuclei. Don’t discount those for the flashier muscles during your workout.
Seniors Helping Seniors has one goal and that is to extend your independence. Staying healthy, maintaining muscle, and building your cardiovascular strength will ensure that your independence lasts well past your prime no matter the task. With water training, you can effectively build muscle and stamina while eliminating joint pain.
Cannonball your way into the pool and stay for the water training. Your active lifestyle depends on it!