Engaging in water-based workouts may help individuals shed up to half a stone in just 10 weeks, according to a recent study. Researchers have found that participating in aqua fitness activities such as aerobics, Zumba, yoga, and water jogging can lead to measurable weight loss and reductions in waist circumference.
The study, which observed nearly 300 participants between the ages of 20 and 70, concluded that exercising in water provides increased resistance, enhancing calorie expenditure while minimizing joint strain. This makes it particularly beneficial for individuals with obesity or those prone to joint pain, as it reduces the risk of injury.
Conducted by researchers from universities in Korea and China, the study highlighted the effectiveness of underwater workouts, especially for women over 45. The researchers analyzed data from 10 clinical trials spanning multiple countries, including Malaysia, Brazil, India, the United States, and the Netherlands. Participants—all of whom were classified as overweight or obese—followed structured water-based fitness programs lasting between six and 12 weeks, attending two to three sessions per week.
Results indicated that, on average, individuals lost 2kg (4.4lbs) within the first 10 weeks of participation. Those who maintained their regimen beyond this period experienced an average weight loss of 3kg (6.6lbs). Additionally, waist circumference decreased by an average of 3cm (1.1 inches), further demonstrating the efficacy of aquatic exercise in reducing central obesity.
These findings align with previous research. A 2017 study conducted in Poland found that overweight women who engaged in underwater exercise over six months lost an average of 3.4kg (7.4lbs), experienced a reduction in body fat, and exhibited improved cardiovascular health, including a lower heart rate.
The study arrives amid growing concerns over rising obesity rates in the UK. Currently, approximately 44 million people in the UK are classified as overweight. Projections indicate that by 2050, three-quarters of British adults may fall into this category. Moreover, government data reveals that 75% of Britons fail to meet recommended exercise guidelines of at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
Dr. Jongchul Park, lead researcher from Pukyong University in Korea, emphasized that while these findings suggest water-based fitness is an effective method for weight management and reducing central obesity, further research involving larger population groups is necessary to determine whether underwater exercise is superior to traditional land-based workouts.
Related Topics:
Expert Offers Dining-Out Tips to Maintain Weight Loss Goals
