Water aerobics makes for a good workout because the activity burns calories efficiently. Diabetic-Lifestyle.com compares the amount of calories that are burned in just 30 minutes of water walking and jogging with the same exercises performed on land (see Resources). Water-based exercises burned an average of 100 calories more than walking or jogging on land due to the additional resistance used during the workout.
Gentle on Joints
The buoyancy of water is very gentle on the joints, making water aerobics an ideal form of exercise for people with arthritis and other kinds of joint pain. People who are unable to run (or perhaps even walk) on land can benefit from the altered state of gravity they experience when they exercise in the water, without the risk of additional pain or injury.
Ideal for All Ages
Water aerobics is a good workout because the entire family can work out together. Water aerobics is performed in shallow water, so even children who cannot swim can participate in the movements of a water-aerobics routine. The water is warm, eliminating the risk of chilling while the participants are moving around. Any workout that involves a team effort or mutual support among the participants is beneficial.