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Swimming and Water Exercise
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What is water exercise? Swimming is a common form of exercise used by people of all ages. Water exercise is any type of exercise that can be done in the water such as water aerobics, water jogging, or water polo. It can be done in a pool, in the ocean, or in a lake. What are the benefits of water exercise? Compared to other forms of exercise like biking, jogging, and lifting weights, water exercise places less stress on your joints. You are lighter in the water than on land, so there is less weight bearing on your back, hips, knees, and ankles. Swimming and water exercise are especially good for people with arthritis. Water exercise also:
It can also decrease your anxiety, help with depression, and improve your self-esteem. What equipment do I need? For swimming all you need is a bathing suit and a place to swim, like a pool, ocean, or lake. Some people like to use a swimming cap or goggles. For water jogging special shoes and a special belt with floats are used. Some swimmers will use a kickboard, hand paddles, or flippers as well. Often there are water aerobics classes you can take several days a week at your local recreation center. Any equipment needed is usually provided at class. How often should I exercise? Before starting any exercise program you should first check with your health care provider. Whenever you are starting a new exercise program it is important to start slowly and build up gradually. Go to the pool 3 times a week. Start by swimming 1 or 2 laps and then resting. Gradually increase the number of laps you are able to swim. Work your way up to swimming nonstop for 20 to 30 minutes. For other water exercises it is also important to start slow and build up over time. How can I prevent injuries? Because swimming and water exercise have less stress on your joints it has a lower rate of overuse injuries and arthritic pain than running or jogging. Here are easy tips for injury prevention:
Any time you start up a new exercise or activity you can expect to be sore for 2 to 3 days afterwards. Learn the difference between muscle soreness and muscle pain. Muscle soreness is normal and should go away after you get used to your new training. Muscle pain is more severe and intense. If you are concerned about an injury or if your muscle pain lasts more than 1 week, then you should see your health care provider.  Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to
change as new health information becomes available. The
information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a
replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or
treatment by a healthcare professional.
HIA File EXR4155F.HTM Release 9.0/2006. Copyright © 2006 McKesson Corporation and/or one of its subdiaries. All Rights Reserved.
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