Fall19ThoreauClubMagazine

WhyWater? The thought of exercising can be daunting. Our Group Exercise program offers a way to get your workout in sweat-free! Come take an AquaFit, Aqua Dance, or Water Bootcamp class! You’ll get strength, cardio, and flexibility training while moving to great music and staying cool. No need to be able to swim and all fitness abilities are welcome. The benefits of being in and around water are well known as outlined by the United States Water Fitness Association. Scientific studies have shown that people are happier, physically and emotionally healthier, and better at what they do when around water. The World Health Organization states that, “Recreational water activities can have substantial benefits to health and well-being. Swimming pools, beaches, lakes, rivers, and spas provide environments for rest and relaxation, physical activity, exercise, pleasure, and fun.” Enjoy the Water Exercise Program at The Thoreau Club The Fountain of Youth is in the water. Dr. Bruce E. Becker, clinical professor at the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at the UW School of Medicine, is leading the medical profession in aquatic therapy research. He has found if you want to stay young, or feel better at any age, get in the water. When you sit or stand in warm water to your neck, buoyancy and hydrostatic pressure increase your flow of blood, while simultaneously decreasing your heart rate. Cardiac output is up to 30% higher. This is good for every organ in your body, including your skin. Warm water lowers blood pressure of all individuals, even those with high blood pressure. Immersion in any water, chest deep, increases endurance. Water pressure creates a compression on the chest wall, added to the increased blood volume, making it harder to breathe; about 60% harder when immersed to the neck. This strengthens all respiratory muscles, 28 THOREAU INSPIRED | FALL 2019