Healthwise
To print: Use your web browser's print feature. Close this window after printing.

Water Exercise

Table of Contents


Overview

Water exercise uses water for resistance. It also may be called water therapy, pool therapy, aqua therapy, or aquatics. It's good exercise for many people who have osteoarthritis, back pain, or fibromyalgia. It's often used to help people in rehab after a joint replacement.

Water exercise is often done as part of a physical therapy program. Or you may find a program in a gym or health club.

Why is water exercise done?

Exercising in water can increase your flexibility and range of motion without putting stress on your joints and spine. Warm water also helps relax your muscles.

You can walk and run in water, as well as jump or kick. But it's not a weight-bearing exercise. So you will need to add other types of exercise to help make your bones stronger.

Exercising in water

Although water exercise is usually gentle, talk to your doctor before you start a program. You want to make sure that water exercise is right for your health condition.


Credits for Water Exercise

Current as of: July 17, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.


Note: The "printer friendly" document will not contain all the information available in the online document. Some information (e.g. cross-references to other topics, definitions or medical illustrations) is only available in the online version.

© 1995-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.