4 Super Fun Pool Exercises for Seniors

There’s no better way to relax during these hot summer days than by the pool – we’re big fans of escaping to our local beaches and lakes whenever we get the chance! But when it comes to staying fit and active in this heat wave, be sure to keep up and try out these pool exercises for seniors at your local gym, friend’s pool or community center! They are low-impact, which means they are easy on the joints and bones which are common problem areas for seniors with arthritis.

Since they’ve become so popular throughout the years, they are also often offered at fitness centers for members of any age. The best part is that because these exercises can be done in the pool, you won’t need to worry too much about overheating or fatigue and allow you or your loved one to stay active during the hot summer months.  Here are some pool exercises for seniors to try next time you’re out in the sun…relaxing poolside!

Water Zumba

Possibly our favorite workout (in or out of the water), water zumba is one of the best ways to get your heart rate up while getting trim and lean. Before getting in the water, prepare to get your groove on by searching for videos on YouTube by typing in “senior zumba moves” or “zumba dancing for water aerobics”. This will definitely get you inspired and allow you or your loved one to practice pool exercises for seniors a bit before doing the same motions in the water.

Lifts

For this exercise, choose water-safe barbels or hand weights that float in the water. Grab one weight and stand by the edge of the pool with one hand over the wall, and the other holding onto the weight tightly. Begin lifting your arm up and down, bending the elbow. Keep the pace steady, and focus on bring your arm parallel to the elbow on your way down.

Curls

Another good pool exercises for seniors is curls! Stand a bit further away from the edge of the pool with one weight in each hand. Find your balance, and hold the weights out straight in front of your body with your palms facing up. Bend your arms at the elbow, bring your hands to your eye level, and continue to curl up and down, up and down slowly and steadily as you hold on tightly to each weight.

Flutter Kicks

Running, jogging and even walking each day can be difficult for seniors with knee and hip problems. Doing the same motion in water, however, can prove a bit easier and over anyone a chance to work on strengthening the leg muscles. First, grab onto the wall of the pool and let your legs float out behind you. Focus on keeping your core tight, and slowly kick up each leg up and down to mimic a swimmer.