There are so many different ways of not just cooling off in the water, but also gaining fitness benefits. I thought I would list a few ideas for you to play with.

But let’s start with all of the additional benefits that water-based Body Movement includes - not to mention all the fun you’ll have:

~ Low impact on joints and bones
~ Higher resistance for muscle toning
~ A full body massage provided from the water around you
~ The water’s resistance against your movements results in a higher workout intensity compared to land fitness
~ Anti-inflammatory effect due to water pressure
~ Privacy of the water
~ The cooling effect from the heat of summer

One of my favourite aquatic playtimes is Aqua Zumba®.  This Specialty class is the “pool party” class for all ages. It incorporates dance and fitness moves and makes it fun for anyone who wants to move in the water. Accompanied by fun, upbeat music, this fun “pool party” makes exercising in a pool seem like a breeze.

Another good one is Water Aerobics. It is a fun, water session that teaches you to use water as a powerful resistance mechanism. You mimic land activities in the water, such as running, biking, strength training and even kick-boxing, without impact or wear and tear on your joints! Get the benefits of weights, aerobics and stretching all in one session, while focusing on improving all aspects of physical fitness. These benefits can include:

~ Tone & Build Lean Muscle
• Strengthen Abdominal Muscles
~ Increase Flexibility
~ Improve Posture & Alignment
~ and it’s FUN and FEELS GOOD!

Water Marching is quite an interesting one, I think. To begin, stand up straight and breath evenly. Next, make continuous strides as if marching on the spot, extending arms and legs as far as you can.

The resistance created by the water will keep the march in slow motion. Stretch your limbs out fully, pointing your toes and pulling your arms vigorously back and forth.

Start with two minutes or so, until it makes you slightly breathless. Simply aim for a good rhythmic walking movement. It may look funny, but hey, that’s what I think fitness is all about…having fun!

Relaxation plays a very important part to your overall health and wellbeing. That’s why I’ve left the best for last, which is Floating on Water. Let your body go loose and limp and allow yourself to float on the water.

You will be amazed how when you let your body totally relax, it will automatically float on the water without sinking. It is such a beautiful and relaxing feeling. Try doing it with no noise around and just listen to your breathing; you will be relaxed in no time.

So have fun, stay cool and remember, you don’t have to work up a sweat if you do some fitness in the water! 

As a personal trainer who's always loved her body, Sue Bary was tired of being classified as 'mildly obese' and wanted to help others experience Enjoyable Body Movement without being subject to the usual verbiage of weight loss and dieting. Thus, she created enarji, a personal training practice steeped in the Health at Every Size approach and attitude. To learn more about Sue, click here. Because you are a special More of Me to Love member, Sue wants you to enjoy a FREE consultation through enarji's Virtual Health Coach services. .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) to schedule your free consultation today!