What Exactly Is Aqua Yoga?
Aqua yoga, also known as water yoga, is a unique and exciting form of yoga that takes place in the water, typically in a swimming pool (if you're feeling very brave, you could combine yoga with wild swimming).
The premise is simple...... imagine doing your favorite yoga poses, but instead of on a mat, you're immersed in water up to your chest.
This might sound unusual, but it's a fantastic way to experience yoga in a whole new light, and it actually engages the muscles very differently due to the resistance created by the water.
The water also plays a supportive role, making it easier for you to balance too. This is because the buoyancy of the water reduces the effects of gravity, making you feel lighter and more flexible.
It's almost like you're floating, which adds a whole new dimension to your yoga practice.
Perfect for Beginners
We think aqua yoga is perfect for beginners and those with limited mobility or exercise experience. The supportive natural of the water means the risk of injury is much lower compared to dryland exercises, especially for those with joint pain or existing conditions that impact their movement.
What Should You Wear?
Since you'll probably in a local pool, you'll need a swimsuit.
If you're doing it in your own pool, then free feel to wear what you please. Avoid anything that might restrict your ability to move.
Do You Need Any Equipment?
When it comes to aqua yoga, you don't need much in terms of equipment. Most classes will focus on bodyweight movements and poses, but sometimes a buoyancy aid, like a pool noodle, might be used to help with certain poses.
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Aqua Yoga Benefits
Low Impact
One of the most significant benefits of aqua yoga is that it's low impact on joints, whilst still providing a good cardiovascular/resistance workout.
This often makes it a popular choice for people with joint pain or arthritis.
The buoyancy of the water supports your body weight, reducing the strain on your joints. This allows you to perform movements and poses that might be difficult or painful on dryland, making aqua yoga a great way to stay active and fit, regardless of any physical limitations.
Improves Strength
While the water makes some movements easier, it also adds resistance, which can help improve your strength.
Every movement you make in the water has to be against the resistance of the water, which can help build muscle strength and endurance over time.
For example, if you lift your knee up in water, your hip flexors have to work harder against the water, compared to on dryland.
A lot of aqua yoga poses require you to stabilize your body throughout too, which is a great way to engage and strengthen your core muscles.
Enhances Flexibility
The warm water in aqua yoga helps to relax your muscles, increasing your flexibility and range of motion. The buoyancy of the water also allows for a greater range of movement, enabling you to stretch further and deeper into your poses.
This can lead to improved flexibility over time, which can enhance your performance in other physical activities and reduce your risk of injuries.
Boosts Balance
Balancing in water is different from balancing on dryland.
The water's buoyancy can make it easier to maintain poses that require balance, but the movement of the water can also add an element of challenge.
This can help improve your balance and coordination, both in and out of the water.
Promotes Relaxation
There's something incredibly soothing about being in water. The gentle pressure of the water against your skin can have a calming effect, helping to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
The focus on breathing and movement in aqua yoga can also help quiet your mind, further enhancing its stress-relieving benefits.
