During the heat of the summer, workouts can become more challenging. Why not change things up, and move your workout routine into the pool? You might be surprised to learn that water workouts are great for everyone, from senior citizens to elite athletes. And yes, they can make a great addition to your exercise and weight loss plan.

Give a water aerobics class a try, and you could reap the following benefits:

Escape the heat. As we mentioned, workouts in water can feel much more comfortable during the summertime.

Low impact exercise. Because of the support provided by water, you won’t have to worry about damaging your joints. Water workouts are great for people with arthritis or injuries, or who worry about long-term impact of exercise on their joints. In fact, the impact upon your joints is lowered by up to 90 percent in the water.

Added resistance. Water provides even resistance across all of your muscles. Imagine performing exercises with sandbags wrapped around you for resistance! Water workouts can help you tone muscles, even though the exercise itself feels comfortable and perhaps less strenuous than some other forms of exercise.

Burn calories. You might be surprised at how much energy a water workout can burn! The even resistance makes your muscles work harder, but the greater comfort and range of motion within the water can actually help you work harder and more comfortably. The result can be a more effective workout and a greater calorie burn.

It’s fun. Yes, really! You might feel a bit awkward at first, but that’s normal when trying new things. Water workouts can be a fun way to exercise and enjoy a social group activity.

Join a class this week and give a water workout a try. Trying new things is one of the best ways to keep your exercise routine fresh and interesting, so that you don’t feel bored and tempted to quit. And as always, give us a call if you need any help with a weight loss plan, and to be screened for underlying conditions before starting a new exercise routine.