(2-minute read)
I often discuss with my patients during treatment at my BS6 Bristol osteopath clinic the benefits of water-based exercises, especially during the warmer Summer months.
Swimming is a great way to train, build fitness, strength and maintain flexibility. It is also great cross-training for many types of sports. But swimming is not for everyone.
Other water-based exercises deliver a multitude of benefits, such as improved cardiovascular health, better muscle strength, improved flexibility and core strength and often a reduction of both physical pain and mental stress.
Why consider water-based exercises?
Water provides natural support to the body, meaning that it can be an excellent low-impact fitness, wellbeing or injury rehabilitation option compared to running, walking or the gym.
As a BS6 Bristol osteopath, I recommend water-based exercises to patients who have a loss of mobility, who might be elderly, might have weight-bearing joint issues or even athletes recovering from an injury.
Water-based fitness classes such as aqua aerobics/ aqua-fit are also a good alternative to swimming, as it displace body weight, making it excellent as a light resistance workout, and great if you’re not a proficient swimmer.
Who are water-based exercises suited to?
Utilising water as part of an ongoing fitness programme isn't just for the elderly.
Workouts in water reduce the risk of injuries to areas such as the knees, hips and back.
Water-based exercises in organised groups are also a good social activity for many.
Can aqua aerobics help injured athletes?
I have treated patients who are elite athletes with sports-related issues. I’ve found that water-based exercises provide support, aerobic and muscle conditioning while they rehab the area.
If you're looking for sports rehab in BS6, read this.
For patients with a knee, ankle or leg injury who want to train, they can continue in water using a buoyancy belt, working out in the deep end to increase the amount of water resistance they work against, with no impact on the injured area.
A running drill undertaken in the water, for example, is a fantastic option and a great cardio workout, and I have seen patients who are triathletes recover well using this technique.
If you are a triathlete who has suffered an injury, I suggest that you read this.
The natural resistance provided by water is also beneficial for muscle strengthening and toning, which can help elderly patients and those with limited mobility in general.
Where do I access water-based exercises in Bristol?
Private gyms across Bristol offer various Aqua-Fit classes, while many public pools in the city provide more than adequate facilities for water-based exercises.
If you have sustained a swimming injury and are unsure of the best type of treatment, I recommend that you read this.
To make a booking for a consultation at my BS6 Bristol osteopathic clinic, please visit here.