10 Benefits of Water Aerobics (and 3 Drawbacks)

There are many types of water aerobics classes, from cardio to strength training. No matter which type of aquatic exercise program appeals to you, here are 10 benefits water aerobics can offer to people of all ages.

Benefits of Water Aerobics

It’s Low Impact

Angel Ruest, a group fitness instructor at Life Time Fitness in Westminster, Colorado, says that the top benefit of water aerobics is that it’s easy on the joints.

It Builds Community

It Benefits Your Brain Health

Not only is water aerobics a physical workout — it also works out your brain.

It Provides a Full-Body Workout

“Depending on the type of class and water depth, water aerobics really is a full-body workout,” Ruest says.

You may aqua jog or walk as part of the workout, using your legs and core for stability. Water weights or above-water hand motions are commonly part of the workout routine as well.

It Supports Cardiovascular Fitness

It Can Help Relieve Stress

It Helps You Build Core Strength

The extra resistance from the water also activates your core as you perform each move.

It Can Be a Recovery Workout

It Improves Mobility and Flexibility

Plus, the weightless effect of water can make stretching and mobility movements feel less constrained or laborious.

It May Help Soothe Your Muscles

Drawbacks of Water Aerobics

The Pool Has Harsh Chemicals

Recreational pools come in two types: chlorine and saline.

Chlorine pools use chlorine as a large-scale water disinfectant. Saline pools use a scientific process to turn salt into chlorine. Either way, both chlorine and saline pools use some form of disinfectant to keep the pool safe for public use.

While safe, clean water is important for all swimmers and water aerobics participants, adverse effects from chlorine do occur.

You Still Sweat

Despite its lighter load and fun atmosphere, water aerobics is still a workout — which means you’ll likely still sweat while performing the exercise moves.

“Fun fact: You still sweat when doing water aerobics,” Ruest says.

People Have Misconceptions About Water Aerobics Attendees

When people think of water aerobics, there may be a misconception that it’s only for older adults or people who have limited mobility. But aqua fitness can be beneficial for anyone.

“I have triathletes, runners, and cyclists take water classes and thoroughly enjoy them,” Ruest says.

Don’t let a prior opinion of who goes to water aerobics classes hold you back from attending. You may be surprised to find a large range of ages, physical abilities, and types of athletes at any given aqua fitness class.

Water Aerobics Tips

Water aerobics can be a great workout, but as with any exercise program, it’s important to keep a few safety precautions in mind. Be sure to speak with a doctor before you start any new exercise program, especially if you have any preexisting health conditions or haven’t exercised in a long time.

Another important safety precaution: “The warm water of most aerobics pools, plus the physical activity, means you still need to hydrate,” Ruest says.

So remember to bring a water bottle to any aqua fitness class, and ensure that you’re drinking fluids throughout the session.

• Wear water shoes during the workout to protect your feet and help prevent slips.
• Wear a bathing cap to protect your hair, if desired.
• Stand in a spot where your feet can easily touch the bottom of the pool.
• Keep your body straight and tall during the workout, and engage your core.
• If you try any jumping moves, land on the balls of your feet and press through your heels.