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PRECAUTION BEFORE STARTING AN EXERCISE PROGRAM
Before anyone starts an exercise program, it is wise to check
with their physician. It is a good idea to get a medical
history and physical done periodically anyway. Also, if you
have a history of heart problems or other serious illnesses,
it is best to get your physicians OK before starting any
aerobic exercise program.
WATER RUNNING TECHNIQUE
Water running is an extremely simple and inexpensive form of
exercise. The only equipment needed is a swimsuit, and some
sort of flotation device. Many swimming pools have these
flotation devices available, so it isn’t necessary to buy
these, in most cases. However, I purchased an “Aqua Coach”
from a local sporting goods store. This is a flotation device
which attaches with a belt around the waist. It also comes
with a set of instructions for water running. The technique is
very straight forward. Water running is best done in the deep
end of the pool. There is no danger, even for non-swimmers
because of the flotation device. A person simply reproduces
the running motion while in the deep water. The arms and legs
are pumped back and forth. The heart rate is monitored and the
activity is continued for 30-60 minutes.
I would recommend that it be done 4-6 times per week for those
who wish to lose weight. For weight maintenance, 2 to 3 times
a week may be probably sufficient. To add variety to this form
of exercise, the positions can be changed. A person can do the
same exercise while floating on their back. Also, the arm and
leg motions can be varied to include such things as punching
type arm extensions, rather than pumping of the arms. Also,
the legs can be moved in more of a bicycling motion at times,
instead of running motion. At times, you can do swimming on
the back or hold one of the sides of the pool, and simply kick the legs in
a flutter kick. The key to the exercise is to keep moving.
Distance traveled is not important. The only important factors
are keeping the heart rate in the aerobic range, and the
time of the workout.
Please contact us and let us
know of your results.
Send $19.95 check or money order to:
West Valley Foot & Ankle Center
3540 South 400 West Suite 480
West Valley City, UT 84120
drcraig@westvalleyfootandmedical.com |
