Water Aerobics is an activity which occurs in water and raises both the participants heart rate and breathing for an extended period of time.

Water aerobics is a system of aerobic exercise performed in a shallow pool. Water serves as an extra form of resistance, intensifying the workout program.

To improve one's flexibility, strength, endurance and general health.

Most aerobics programs follow a general framework, which is: a warming up period, a minimum of 20 minutes of intensive exercise, and a cooling down period. Other basic rules include not splashing others, and listening to the commands of the instructor.

An early form of water aerobics was first proposed and practiced by television fitness guru Jack LaLane in the 1950's. As regular aerobic systems gained in popularity in the 1970's and 1980's water aerobics was rediscovered. It soon became the fitness program of choice for the elderly, mostly due to the low-impact nature of the workout. Because of this, water aerobics has become an excellent fitness alternative for those rehabbing from various injuries. Today, water aerobics is widely practiced in many countries throughout the world, and has branched off into many creative forms and disciplines.

Aqua Weights
Jog Belt
Kickboard
Water Shoes

Though the amount of swimming involved in water aerobics is negligible, participants should always take caution while in the pool. Stretching and staying properly hydrated can help avoid most common injuries.

Participating in water aerobics requires no prior training, beyond having a basic level of fitness. Participants should possess a basic knowledge of swimming and water safety rules.

Eddy Resistance - drag which occurs when the body moves through water

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aqua_aerobics
http://www.unm.edu/~lkravitz/Article%20folder/history.html
http://hydro-tone.com/glossary.html