10 Great Reasons to Exercise in the Water During Pregnancy

 

1. Weightlessness

A submerged body weighs approximately 1/10 of its weight on land.

 

2. Constant CORE workout

Abdominal & back muscles need to be activated for pelvic stability & balance in the water. This means you can expect to work your core muscles through the entire class. A strong core is essential for preventing back pain, injuries and pelvic floor discomfort.

 

3. Work out smarter not longer

Work agonistic and antagonist muscles at the same time. Ex. When you do a bicep curl in the water, you also work your triceps as you extend your arms.

 

4. Easier on your body

Reduces stress to joints and connective tissue

 

5. Improves flexibility and range of motion

Remember to use a full range of motion whenever possible.

 

6. Feels good

Perception of lower exercise intensity without a decrease in the benefits of exercise

 

7. Improves circulation and reduce swelling

Hydrostatic pressure (force exerted on body by water) improves circulation by aiding venous return to your body. Better circulation means less swelling, constipation, varicosities and leg cramps.

 

8. Less risk of overheating

A cool pool prevents overheating because heart doesn’t have to work as hard to cool the body down during exercise. May also be a reason heart rate is often lower during aquatic classes.

 

9. Improve mental health

A study from the Centers for Disease Control in the US found that aquatic exercise has a positive influence on depression, anxiety, mood and self esteem. How wonderful!

 

10. Aquafit is fun

Being in an aquafit class feels like a fun get together with friends and like-minded people and the workout seems to fly by.

 

Want to try it? Email aileen@fittogether.ca to join for a drop-in, or check out the schedule here.