Splashes of exercise

It may be a little too early to talk about H2O aerobics, especially when the country is experiencing a particularly cold winter, but here's something you can plan in advance for your next exercise schedule. Yes, we're talking about water aerobics (or H2O) aerobics and it is the latest style statement in exercises.

How does it work: As the name suggests, H2O aerobics is done in the pool and aims at a full cardio and muscle workout. A high-energy, shallow-water workout, this focuses on cardio endurance, flexibility, muscular strength and toning.

Experts say that water aerobics is also useful because only 20 per cent of body weight is used in water while on the treadmill three times of the body weight is used.

Interestingly, it's not just swimming but also a variety of techniques and exercises that are being tried in water. In India, "water yoga" is finding a lot of takers.

Critics often scoff at this, calling it a marketing gimmick, but a large number of people who've attempted yoga postures in water admit to losing excess weight and gaining more stamina in the bargain.

Those who usually suffer from knee injuries and paralysis are often (under guidance, of course) encouraged to take a dip in the pool. While patients who suffering from certain ailments can't get on to a treadmill, water-based exercises are, in fact, encouraged by doctors for them.

At the Indian Spinal Injuries Centre in New Delhi, a full-fledged, temperature-controlled pool is invariably used by patients under strict expert supervision.

Since the body is almost weightless in water, it is ideal for increasing lower body strength, power and agility through power jumps. Usually 30-45 minutes of exercises are recommended by experts and under guidance one should ideally jog, knee lift, stretch and jump in water and conduct exercises.

But before starting any new exercise schedule, please consult your doctor.