Install a in-ground pool is an ideal option for relaxing at home. What's more, it's the best type of pool for water sports. Whether you're looking to slim your figure, improve your fitness or create a friendly atmosphere, read on to discover simple exercises to do in your in-ground pool.
Aquatic activities (swimming, aquagym, water polo, etc.) are effective slimming allies. The pressure exerted by water brings greater benefits than those achieved on land. The body supplies more energy and calls on several muscles to maintain its balance in the water, which helps burn more calories.
Here are some other benefits of the pool for keeping your figure trim:
Swimming and other aquatic activities tone the body and sculpt the figure. The force exerted when pulling to propel yourself is comparable to weightlifting, which helps to build muscle in the arms and legs.
Water sports are an excellent way to get back into shape:
Aquatic activities have a protective effect on muscles and joints. In fact, the absence of shock during movement, as in land-based activities, minimizes the risk of injury and trauma. Physical exercise in the water is particularly recommended for the elderly and those suffering from back pain, joint problems, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, etc.
Exercising in cool water can relieve inflammation and reduce joint and muscle pain.
Breathing during aquatic activities is different from breathing on land. The swimmer must breathe in and out in a controlled manner. This effort strengthens the respiratory system and brings more oxygen to the cells, improving immune action.
Movement in the water stretches muscles and improves flexibility. The buoyancy of the water also facilitates movement and can help improve joint mobility. This is an asset for the development of motor skills in young children.
Water activities are relaxing and soothing. Water has a calming effect, which can reduce stress and promote relaxation. What's more, all physical activity releases endorphins, the hormones responsible for a good mood and sense of well-being.
The benefits of an in-ground pool for pregnant women
It's vital to ensure that your in-ground pool is well maintained before you start exercising. You need to carry out regular water analyses and check that the filtration system is working properly. This is essential to protect you from infection and contamination.
The water temperature should be suitable for physical activity. You can set the temperature slightly lower than usual for a refreshing effect and to avoid premature fatigue.
Your in-ground pool must comply with the safety standards required by the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ). Children, the elderly and people with health problems should be supervised.
By walking or running in the water, you can take advantage of the water's natural resistance to work your muscles. You can alternate between normal walking, brisk walking and running to intensify your workout.
Stand near the edge of the pool with the water at shoulder height. Lower yourself into a squat position, bending your knees and keeping your back straight. Then push up on your legs to return to the starting position. Repeat to work leg and buttock muscles.
Stand upright in the water with your arms crossed, and use rapid leg kicks to maintain your position. Legs should be straight and slightly bent at the knees. If you're comfortable with this exercise, switch to the horizontal position and perform the same kicking motion, making sure your toes are parallel to the surface of the water.
You can enlist the help of a coach or take an online course to learn to swim the crawl. You can use a pull buoy to concentrate on arm movement, or hold a kickboard at arm's length to improve your kicking technique. A rectangular in-ground pool is ideal for this type of exercise.
Place a foam fry under the back of your neck while lying on your back. Hold the fry with both hands and use your legs to move. This exercise is recommended for strengthening back muscles.
Place a foam fry under each armpit and assume a sitting position. Bring both knees to your chest, then straighten your legs. Keep your head out of the water.
You can use foam dumbbells to gently work the arm muscles. The exercise is similar to that performed out of the water: start with your arms straight, then bring the dumbbells to your shoulders by bending your elbow, or keep your arms straight as you raise the dumbbells to the horizontal.
Bend your legs so that your shoulders are underwater. Spread your arms crosswise, close them quickly in front of you and then slowly reopen them. Repeat several times. This exercise is effective for building pectoral muscles.
5 advantages of buying an in-ground pool to teach children to swim
Aqua Fibre Innovation offers you several in-ground pool models of impeccable quality. Our experts can advise you on the best shape for your needs and your preferred aquatic activities.
