Maintaining a workout routine is ideal for improving your health and overall well being. But sometimes even your favorite set of exercises can get boring, and once you get bored, you can become unmotivated. Adding a little water to your workout not only allows you to learn some new exercises, but it’s also a great way to stay refreshed while working out!

The pool isn’t just for swimming anymore. Fitness experts and gyms around the country have recognized the benefits of exercising in the water and are encouraging others to take part in a new kind of workout. Many fitness gurus and doctors praise the ability of water to safely allow people with certain conditions the opportunity to stay healthy without putting themselves at risk. Pregnant women, as well as those who suffer from obesity, back, muscle, joint pain, and arthritis have found comfort in water exercises.

Water is perfect for exercise because it takes your body out of its natural element. The weight of water forces your muscles to work harder than they normally would, which in turn strengthens your body’s endurance. Working out in the water also improves flexibility and is an excellent form of cardio.

Whether you’re the picture of perfect health or are suffering from a preexisting condition, performing exercises in water can be a great workout for your whole body. Those with health issues should consult with their doctor first to create a specific workout regimen.

There is no right or wrong way to do water exercises. Many you can come up with on your own, such as leg lifts or even old-fashioned laps from one end to the other. The following are some easy examples you can try out in your pool or on your next visit to the gym:

Water Squats: Stand in the water with feet hip-width apart. Bend the knees slightly as you start to slowly squat. Don’t bend too much - you should still be able to see your toes as you bend. As you slowly start to stand up, squeeze your glutes but keep both feet firmly on the ground. Once you are back in a standing position, pause and then repeat.

Leg Lift: While standing in shoulder-deep water, hold onto the edge of the pool for balance. Extend your left or right leg straight out to the side as far as you can. Keep your toes pointed toward the wall without letting your ankle turn. Keep your hips straight and in place. Now bring your leg back down. Repeat this movement 8-10 times and then switch to the other leg.

Obliques: Stand with your back flat against the pool wall and hold onto the edge with both arms stretched out. Assume a reclined position with your legs together, knees bent. Twist your knees to one side, only using your lower body and keeping your back straight. Now twist to the opposite side. Repeat as needed.

Not too creative when it comes to what exercises you can do? Then sign up for a class at your local gym. Many workout facilities now offer special water exercise programs that incorporate fun and easy exercises for all age groups and skill levels. Some use free weights and other pool-friendly tools that allow you to perform the same exercises you would do normally.  

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