As summer approaches, I know that more and more of you have pool time on your mind! And with good reason: our PJCC pools provide a beautiful setting for enjoying all that summer offers.
But that’s not the only reason to head to the pool! As any aquatics aficionado will tell you: water workouts provide a wonderful, low-impact way to get a full-body workout that builds your endurance, muscle strength, and cardiovascular fitness.
In this article, I’ve shared my top ideas for getting yourself going on a new water workout routine. I’ve also provided my favorite recommendations for more experienced swimmers looking to enhance their progress in the pool.
Let’s dive in!
New to incorporating water workouts into your regular routine? These tips will help you begin a refreshing new practice!
Working to overcome a plateau? Ready to give yourself an added challenge?These recommendations will get you going in the right direction!
You can work towards peak performance even when you’re outside the pool! Strength-training exercises complement all the hard work you put in when you’re swimming those laps. If you’re looking to improve your strength and agility in the pool… why not fit some of these simple activities into your workout regimen?
1. Exercises such as the plank pose, which focus on your core, are foundational to your overall strength and health. Try out these basic plank exercises, or challenge yourself a bit, if you’re up for it! To execute this move properly, keep your back flat, gently tuck in your chin, and lightly “squeeze” your shoulder blades throughout the exercise.
2.Squats help build your leg muscles—so important for increasing the strength and speed of your kicks! But be careful to use good form: make sure your knees are not bent past your toes.
3. Of course, you want to give your arms, back, shoulders, and chest some attention! Bicep curls, the ever-popular pushup (in its many variations), and chest presses are excellent activities to incorporate into your routine.
Important Notes:
The water-based exercises listed above assume basic swim skills.
As always, we recommend consulting a doctor prior to starting any workout routine.