Whether you are looking to improve your fitness levels, lose some weight, recover from injury or just have fun, exercise in the pool is a great way to stay in shape.

Swimming is the most obvious way of keeping fit in the water as it works the entire body and is a low-impact regime which places very little strain on your joints.  Swimming helps to stimulate circulation, promotes proper breathing and helps to combat the ageing process.  It is an activity with physical and mental health benefits, and can be continued for a lifetime.  Swimming is also an inclusive activity that is great for the whole family.

There are other ways of working out in the water. Aqua aerobics is an increasingly popular alternative, and is a great way to burn fat and build endurance.  Other forms of aqua exercise include resistance/strengthening classes which are a great way to improve tone, strength and mobility. The main advantage of exercising in water is that it offers resistance in all directions, with the added benefit of the cushioning effect that water provides. Any of these water based activities can also serve as a cross-training element to complement your regular workout plan.

Any water exercise is great conditioning for the body, most especially for:

    * Cardiovascular system - maintains a healthy heart and lungs
    * Muscular strength - endurance and muscle conditioning
    * Flexibility - exercises a wide range of muscles groups
    * Posture - improved due to better muscle tone
    * Alleviating stress - you will feel so relaxed after exercising in the water
    * Coordination - timing your breathing and stroke helps develop coordination
    * Helps maintain a healthy weight - swimming can help you shed those extra kilograms
    * Provides an all-over body workout, as nearly all of your muscles are used during swimming.

Water exercise is commonly advocated for people with the following conditions:

    * Arthritis
    * Back pain
    * Joint problems
    * Multiple sclerosis
    * Heart
    * Overweight/Obesity

Swimming and water-based exercise is also great for keeping in shape during pregnancy, as the water takes the weight off the body, reducing the risk of injury.

Safety

• Make sure the environment you choose to swim in is safe
• Observe the pool's safety rules and listen to the instructions of pool lifeguards

If you would like to explore the benefits of water exercise contact a personal trainer or visit your local swimming pool for advice.

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