Ideas for Aqua Fitness for Teenagers

Swimming

• Whether your teen is an expert swimmer or an amateur learning to do the doggy paddle, swimming laps in a safe pool is a good way to get into shape. NHS Choices notes that swimming is the third most popular type of exercise and practicing is necessary to improve this important skill. Swimming works out the entire body, helps to particularly tone and strengthen the chest, shoulder, arm and leg muscles and burns calories. Ensure that the swimming pool your teen uses has a lifeguard on duty at all times.

Water Aerobics

• A swimming pool or the shallow shore of a lake is a good place to do water aerobics. Teens can participate in an aqua fitness class with an aerobics instructor leading the workout. Classes may involve the use of special equipment, such as flotation devices, noodles and water weights. This type of exercise builds up muscle strength and burns calories more easily than regular aerobics because of the resistance from the water. It is important to wear suitable footwear to prevent injury on slippery rocks and pool tiles.

Water Polo

• A friendly game of water polo is an exciting way to workout as a team. This game requires up to 12 players on each side, including a goalie for each team. The object of the game is to get the ball into the other team's net. Water polo is all about speed, strength and good swimming and diving abilities. Ensure that teenagers wear the appropriate protective gear for the eyes and head and that there is a trained lifeguard on duty at all times during the game.

Outdoor Sports

• In the summer months, lakes and rivers become ideal places for water sports. Teens can take canoeing, rowing and kayaking lessons or guided white-water rafting sessions. These activities teach teenagers about outdoor water safety and how to work together as a team. They also build fitness as teens learn rowing techniques. Make sure that your teen's instructor is experienced and follows all safety protocols stringently.

Safety First

• Participating in sports and water fitness offers teens tremendous social and physical benefits. However, Safe Kids Worldwide notes that every year 2.6 million children aged 19 and under require medical treatment for injuries from sports and recreation. Ensure that your child wears the appropriate gear during a swim or water activity and follows the rules. As with any exercise, it is important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Before getting into the water, exercisers should warm up and stretch properly. It is also a good idea for teenagers to get certified in CPR and first aid. It is particularly important to learn the signs and symptoms of a concussion to the head.