Water Jogging - Fitness or Recovery

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If runners knee or a pulled hip have set you back, hit the pool to take a load off...literally. The water's buoyancy is mainly why injured athletes choose water exercises. They get their workout without worsening their injury.



Water jogging is a terrific alternative to regular jogging. It's great for those of us who are obese, suffer joint problems or are simply looking for a safer jogging routine.

Water jogging is very useful for moms-to-be. A study published in Reproductive Health found expectant mothers who do water aerobics three times a week are less likely to need pain medication during delivery. Wow! That's good for you and your baby.

Aqua jogging may also be a good way to get in shape mentally and physically for the delivery of your baby.

To begin you'll need a pool or access to a body of water. Invest in a pair of aquatic exercise shoes designed for this activity. Going barefoot or wearing street jogging shoes won't cut it. You just won't get the resistance you need.

A flotation belt is very helpful, too, since it'll assist you to float in place.



Working in deep water is a good idea. There's zero impact. And, you'll get enough resistance to experience a productive, exhausting workout.

This water activity is the way to go if you've got runner's knee, shin splints or pulled muscles.

Once you get your flotation belt strapped on and aquatic shoes laced up, you're ready to jog!

Keep the following tips in mind:

• Always begin with a warm up and end your session with a cool down.
• Try to maintain good form, no hunching.
• You want to run as you do on land: flexing your legs, hips and ankles and include your arm swing, too.
• You can jog in circles or up and down the pool depending on the pool size.
• You should be breathing heavier and perspiring so that you're getting a good workout.

Shallow water exercise may be another option if deep water is scary or unavailable. You'll have impact issues to consider, but they're still going to be much less than on land.

You'll get a great workout from the water's natural resistance.

Water jogging is a neat form of exercise. Use it to recover from injuries or supplement your jogging routine. It's a terrific aerobic workout that may take some adjusting to so take your time and enjoy yourself.

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Sources:
Active.com
WebMD Water Aerobics Reduces Pain in Childbirth
WebMD Water Exercise for Fibromyalgia: Easing Deep Muscle Pain
eHow.com

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