How to Exercise with a Pool-ates Water Workout
If you've grown weary of that boring water workout, this guide will up the intensity with a routine that incorporates all the benefits of pilates in the pool.
Up next in Water & Pool Fitness (8 videos)
Swimming is great exercise, but so is pool-lates, water aerobics, and other activities you can incorporate into your exercise regimen.
You Will Need
- Pilates knowledge
- Swimsuit
- Water shoes
- Equipment
- Practice
Steps
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Always consult a physician before attempting to do any exercise or exercise plan.
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Step 1
Study the Pilates method
Study the Pilates method to learn the core principles of centering, control, precision, fluidity, breathing and concentration. You may also wish to take a standard Pilates class before moving into the water.
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Step 2
Equip yourself
Equip yourself with a VersaTube and a small kickboard. The VersaTube will help increase the natural resistance of the water and the kickboard will help with balance as you execute each exercise.
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Step 3
Suit up
Wear a comfortable bathing suit that allows for free movement and don some water shoes for better grip and balance in the water. Start in shallow water if you're a beginner and progress to deeper water as your skill level increases.
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Use the natural buoyancy and resistance of the water to improve on the Pilates workout routine.
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Step 4
Focus on breathing
Concentrate on your breathing as you work out. Inhale when engaging the muscles and exhale upon release. Stare straight ahead and pick a single spot to stay focused as you workout.
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Step 5
Modify other moves
Try modifying other pilates moves for the water. With practice and effort your flexibility, coordination, and strength will improve.
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Joseph Pilates, inventor of the Pilates method of exercise, perfected his workout when he served as a nurse during World War I helping injured soldiers recover.
