Aqua Aerobics Fitness Training

Aqua Aerobics Description

Aqua aerobics is a form of aerobic activity that is conducted in a swimming pool with a depth of approximately waist or shoulder level. Aqua aerobics causes very little stress on the joints compared to other types of aerobic dance. Thus, aqua aerobics is less likely to cause injury. This activity may be performed with others in a class environment or alone using a video or audio tape. Aqua aerobics can be an excellent method of cardiorespiratory conditioning. According to a recent American Fitness Association survey, there are over five million Americans participating in aquatic exercise classes. Fitness Expert recommends that beginners seek out a certified or qualified instructor in order to learn the basic movements associated with aqua aerobics.

Aqua Aerobics Warnings

• People suffering from chronic shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee, ankle, lower back, shin, or pelvic injury should receive medical clearance before beginning aqua aerobics.
• While recommended for arthritic and overweight populations, these individuals should seek medical permission before engaging in a supervised aqua-based activity.

Aqua Aerobics Sport-specific applications

• Water related risks such as hypothermia and drowning

Aqua Aerobics Equipment required

• Pool, ocean, lake or training tank
• Clothing: comfortable trunks or swimsuit, should be suited toward weather and temperature if outdoors
• Resistance equipment (optional): water weights, weight vests, hand paddles, water steps or webbed gloves (for more advanced exercisers)

Aqua Aerobics Applicable substitutions

• Low-impact aerobic dance
• Light to moderate exertion swimming and treading water

Aqua Aerobics Reference sources, organizations and publications

• The Aquatic Exercise Association (AEA): 1032 S. Spring St., PO Box 497, Pt. Washington, WI 53074, (414) 284-3416
• Duffield's Exercise in Water, edited by Skinner and Thomson, H.B.J. Publishing, Orlando, FL, (800) 782-4479
• Aqua Book , Ruth Sova, M.S., c/o AEA, PO Box 497, Pt. Washington, WI 53074, (414) 284-3416

Mode

Cardiorespiratory: Aerobic

Fitness Benefits

• Cardiorespiratory 5
• Flexibility 2
• Muscular Strength 2
• Muscular Endurance 2
• Body Fat Recution 4

Fitness Requirements

• Cardiorespiratory 1
• Flexibility 1
• Muscular Strength 1
• Muscular Endurance 2
• Coordination/Skill 1

Muscle groups used

A well-designed program will involve every major muscle group.

Energy expenditure

Approximately 0.058 Calories per minute per pound of body weight