Keeps you fit and healthy: water sports

All life comes from the sea - and so do we humans. And we still notice this today: exercise in the water is simply good for the body. In the water, we float, weigh only a seventh of our weight, feel light and free - and water sports have even more benefits.

Junge Frau mit Badeanzug setzt sich Schwimmbrille auf © iStock
Sport in the water is not only effective, but also healthy

Good for the heart

The water pressure pushes the blood vessels on the surface of the skin together, forcing the blood back into the chest cavity. The heart has to work against this and transport more blood with every heartbeat. This is healthy: the heart volume is increased, the frequency decreases and the organ works more economically.

Good for the lungs

The water pressure also ensures that we cannot inhale as easily. This trains the respiratory muscles and the lungs and bronchial tubes work more effectively. Swimming, aqua jogging and aqua fitness are ideal for asthmatics - with regular training, they have fewer attacks and need less medication.

Good for the muscles

The water resistance requires four to twelve times more strength than on land, which is why gymnastics in water is particularly good for the muscles. Water has a certain massaging effect, which also benefits the muscles. However, it will not get rid of cellulite.

Good for losing weight

In the pool, overweight people can do exercises that would be too strenuous for them on land. This is because the water supports their weight, which is also easy on the joints. The body burns around 400 calories per half hour of active exercise in the water. By comparison, jogging on land only burns around 300 calories per half hour.

Good for the metabolism

Exercise in the pool is more effective than endurance training. The body increases its metabolism so that it doesn't cool down. Aqua fitness is also suitable for people with cardiovascular problems, vein problems, rheumatism, arthrosis and joint problems.