Aqua Sports and Pool Fitness

Pool sports are now much talked about as they grow more popular. On this page we introduce you to a few of these fashionable fitness sports, which as well as being fun, are effective ways to stay really fit.

Clothing Tips:
Alongside each sport we give you some clothing tips. Make sure these clothes fit well before you join any activity. Try them on first in a pool or your bath at home.

Aqua Cycling

This is one of the more interesting aqua sports at the moment.

Hydro bikes are positioned on the pool floor in chest deep water. It allows you to pedal in water and do an invigorating aerobic workout.

Just like a traditional biking lesson, it enables you to do a non-strenuous leg workout against the water's resistance.

You can burn between 300 and 500 kcal in a typical session with this lower body, glutes and thigh workout, while fighting cellulite and flabby thighs.

Clothing Tip:
Wear comfy cycling clothes and clean sports shoes. Long jogging pants make this workout much harder if you want to get really fit.

Aqua Fitness

This activity helps tone your body and make it more dynamic, as long as you practise at least twice or three times a week for a minimum of six months.

You are assisted by using accessories such as foam noodles, balls or pull-buoys that are placed between thighs, kickboards and footboards.

Clothing Tip:
Lycra swim shirts and/or T-shirts. Swim tights or lightweight sports pants go well with that. The more you wear the harder and better your exercise gets.

Aqua Jogging

Run in the pool and in a group. Equipped with a weight belt around your waist, start by doing a few lengths to warm up. Alternate at different tempos, more or less fast, for a minimum 45 minute workout.

There are multiple benefits for your body. Due to the water pressure, blood rises more easily to your heart when the heart rate increases. You therefore find it easier than when jogging on land. Moreover, aqua jogging develops flexibility, strength and endurance.

Clothing Tip:
Start in T-shirt and shorts, or running clothes. Upgrade to a cotton jogging suit as you get stronger.

Aqua Tai Chi

The pool version of an ancient fitness form. A mix of moves inspired by martial arts, karate, kick boxing and boxing practised in water for 45 minutes, whilst doing an aerobic workout and taking advantage of a hydromassage.

Clothing Tip:
Loose fitting comfortable clothing or a Judo suit over T-shirt and shorts. The Japanese karate uniform known as the "Gi" means pyjamas in Chinese.

Aqua Yoga

Think of traditional yoga, but in water!

Most exercise enthusiasts would not classify yoga as a workout. Ask anyone who actually does yoga and they'll tell you that it gives you a great cardio workout while calming your mind at the same time.

If you can find a quiet little spot in the pool, then go for it. The bubbling sound of the water will make it easier to get centered for your practice.

Perfect for letting go of stress, it's also great for pregnant women. No need to be able to swim perfectly or be a seasoned yogi.

As the pressure of the water forces your muscles to work harder without the risk of stiffness, you will effortlessly tone your figure.

Clothing Tip:
Lycra swim shirt and tights, or loose cotton clothing like a jogging suit. You are submerged in the pool with soft clothes for added comfort.