waterfitnesslessons
Benefits of Water Exercise
Just getting into the pool lowers blood pressure for most people, and this effect lingers for a period even after you get out of the pool.
Pool temperatures are typically between 80 and 86 °F. Water conducts heat away from the body and keeps exercisers cool and comfortable during exertion.
The hydrostatic pressure against the chest increases the work of breathing, which strengthens the muscles of respiration.
Hydrostatic pressure pushes blood out to the extremities, increasing stroke volume and cardiac output, while at the same time lowering the heart rate.
Blood flow to the muscles increases an amazing 250%. The extra blood flow not only delivers oxygen to working muscles, but also helps heal damaged tissue.
Increased cardiac output means greater blood volume is pushed through the kidneys, increasing urine output to help patients with moderate kidney disease.
Buoyancy lifts the body upward, reducing impact shock to protect and assist joints and muscles while challenging balance.
Offloading the joints eases movement for people with MS, arthritis, fibromyalgia, spine pain, neuropathy, post polio syndrome, and other conditions.
Water offers 12 times the resistance of air, requiring an exerciser has to apply more force to move in the water than similar actions require on land.
Water is a dynamic resistant force, meaning the more force applied to the water, the more resistance the water offers in return.
Because of water resistance, exercise movements tend to be slower and more controlled, which lessons the risk of injury.
Resistance is constant on all sides in the water, which helps promote muscular balance.
Being in water reduces the stress response and creates a feeling of relaxation.
Weightlessness is perceived as fun by most exercisers.