Summer is quickly approaching! We all know what that means…days with unbearable heat, aka days that going on a run outside is just impossible without getting physically dehydrated. Days like these are a pain sometimes. I recently have stumbled upon a workout that you can do in a pool, whether it be in the comfort of your own pool, the pool at a gym, or grab a friend and go to your community pool! This workout burns a lot of calories but feels more like play than an actual workout. Just treading water can burn up to 11 calories per minute! (McGlashan) To get the most out of this workout, do as many reps you can for about 30 seconds each, rest, then repeat until you get tired.
1. K-tread: Start by treading water. Make small circles with cupped hands. While doing this. lift one foot (straight-legged) to hip level. Hold for 5 seconds.
2. Otter roll: Float on your back while hugging an inflated beach ball. Roll towards your right, engaging all of your muscles to roll on top of the ball. Complete one revolution and repeat going in the opposite direction.
3. Ball Lever: Hold the beach ball directly below you, arms stretched out, feet touching together. While keeping your arms outstretched, pull the ball to your stomach. The water resisting against the ball makes this a very tricky exercise but keeping your arms straight is key!
4. Wave Maker: For this exercise you’ll have to hold onto the edge of the pool. Your left hand will be out of the water holding onto the side while your right hand should be placed palm facing down against the wall right under the water line (purely for extra stability). Keep your legs extended backwards at water level then just kick! Kick as hard and fast as you can for as long as you can!
*all images taken from Google
This workout, taken from FitnessMagazine.com, is fun but, if done a few times a week, has proven to be successful! No need to back down from a good workout on the hot days this summer, just take it to the pool!
Works Cited
McGlashan, Lara. “Slim Down in a Splash: Pool Workout.” Fitness Magazine. N.p., n.d. Web. 18 Apr. 2013. <http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/workout/lose-weight/total-body/pool-workout/?page=6>.