GET FIT
Dive In WATER CYCLING IS MAKING A BIG SPLASH IN FITNESS . | BY DEBRA BOKUR |
Speed junkies , take note : You probably won ’ t get anywhere fast on a water bike — unless , that is , your target destination is improved fitness . Growing data attests to the range of fitness benefits that can be derived from water biking , including improved sleep and pain relief .
Stationary bikes are fixed in place to the bottom of a pool and submerged in a few feet of water . Cyclers work against the natural resistance of water to enhance muscle tone , cardiovascular health and stamina .
Compared to biking on land , water biking “ provides an excellent alternative with lessened impact ,” explains Angie Proctor , executive director of the Aquatic Exercise Association . “ Lessened gravity in combination with the additional water resistance provides a substantial benefit for cardio and strength endurance training , equivalent to similar activities on land .”
Tommie Weatherspoon , Sea Island fitness and wellness manager , concurs . “ Aquatic exercise is a low-impact fitness activity that takes the pressure off your bones , joints and muscles . It offers a natural resistance and it ’ s great for individuals who cannot tolerate the stress of land-based exercises .”
Aqua-exercise can improve cardiorespiratory fitness , strength , flexibility and agility . Other perks to water cycling and aquatic exercise include freedom of movement that allows you to focus on upper body movements . “ You ’ ll also stay cool no matter how warm it is outside . But just because you ’ re in the pool ,” reminds Proctor , “ hydration is still essential — so keep your water bottle at the ready .”
AQUA ACTION
Sea Island offers a great selection of swimming programs and aquatic exercise choices . Dip your toes in the world of aquatic exercise during one of these classes :
WATER AEROBICS Low to moderate resistance training where aerobic exercises are performed in water .
HYDRO-CYCLING Participants pedal against water resistance on stationary bikes submerged in three to four feet of water .
DEEP WATER RUNNING Creates resistance to movement that ’ s great for muscle and joint rehabilitation , and for strengthening to prevent sports injuries .
Members and guests enjoy a hydro-cycling class at the Sea Island fitness center .
AQUATIC PERSONAL TRAINING HIIT ( High Intensity Interval Training ) personal training sessions conducted in water .
26 SEA ISLAND LIFE | FALL / WINTER 2022 / 23