If you’re heat-sensitive, staying cool while working out can be a challenge. That’s why exercising in water (83 to 85 degrees F) can be ideal. There’s much less risk of overheating, and you can exercise your entire body in a single workout. The soothing support and resistance of H2O makes moving considerably easier.
To find the location of a pool that fits your needs, ask your physical therapist or local MS Society chapter.
In water, you can:
Move in ways you might not be able to on land
Work multiple muscle groups, building strength
Increase circulation and mobility
Perform walking exercises with the help of float boards and life jackets
Benefit physically while relaxing mentally
Decrease your risk of injury from falls
Condition your body without overheating
Have fun!
There are many types of water workouts. Here are a few of the most popular:
Your local pool may offer a lot more than just swimming lessons. Many facilities have supervised hydrotherapy classes tailored for people with MS, such as water aerobics, Watsu® (water shiatsu) and ai chi (aquatic tai chi). In addition, most facilities have mechanical lifts to give those with limited mobility access to the pool.
Invented in the 1980s, Watsu combines traditional shiatsu massage, stretching and other relaxing movement, and a pool. While some practitioners prefer warm water, you can practice Watsu in a cooler setting as well. Possible long-term benefits include better sleep patterns, less pain, relaxed muscles, and improved healing.
Tai chi—one of the world’s oldest, lowest impact, and most popular ways to exercise—is easy to learn and practice in water. With the help of water supporting the body as it moves, aquatic tai chi can be a great workout for people with joint pain and stiffness. The slow, continuous movements of tai chi can help improve strength, balance, posture, relaxation, and concentration.
Though more studies should be done, initial research shows that working out in the water may help you burn calories, reduce fat, and lose weight—at the same rate as working out on land. Exercising in water can also help decrease joint stress while improving flexibility. So what are you waiting for? Come on in!
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