Now that the weather is warm and neighborhood pools are open, fitness experts are encouraging senior citizens to use water exercises to improve their overall health.
Champion swimmer and fitness lecturer Jane Katz, 52, suffered a debilitating accident 16 years ago and developed a series of water exercises to speed her recovery. "The water worked like magic," said Katz, who still swims every day.People over 50 own about 30 percent of the home spas and above-ground and in-ground pools, according to the National Spa and Pool Institute.
Arthritis sufferers in particular can benefit from water exercises and pool walking, said Katz, who went on to get a degree in gerontology and advises many older clients. Just walking through water uses more muscle and energy than walking on dry land.
Another simple exercise involves leaning your back into the corner of the pool, and while keeping your torso straight, lifting your legs out to form an "L" with your back. Then swing your legs slowly to the left and then to the right. Repeat several times.
An easy arm exercise can be done standing in water up to your shoulders. With palms facing down, press your arms down towards the bottom of the pool. Then bring arms upwards in underwater semicircles. Repeat several times.
Leg lifts can also be done in the pool, alternating from one leg to the other. Using the water's resistance can help build strength and improve balance.
Along with better heart and lung capacity, water exercises improve endurance, strength and flexibility, according to the Arthritis Foundation.
For more information on how to use water to tone your body and keep fit, check your library for books and videos on water aerobics.