OK, ladies, let’s talk workouts. We all know summer is prime time for pool days, kayaking trips and paddleboarding with the girls — but here’s the thing: Water fitness isn’t just for the summer. It’s a regimen you can (and should!) do all year long – especially here on the Coast. And trust me, it’s way more fun than grinding it out on the treadmill.
The beauty of water workouts is that they’re low impact but high reward. That means you can tone, strengthen and sweat without punishing your joints. Ready to make a splash? Here are some water fitness ideas you’ll love, whether it’s July or January.
WATER AEROBICS: NOT JUST FOR GRANDMA ANYMORE
Forget the stereotype — water aerobics is no joke. The water adds natural resistance, so every kick, jump and punch works your muscles harder without straining them. Plus, it’s super fun when you’re bopping to music in the pool. Many gyms with heated pools offer classes year-round, so you can get your “aqua groove” on even when it’s chilly outside.
Try this: Water jogging, kickboard sprints or using foam dumbbells for bicep curls under the water. You’ll feel the burn in the best way!
KAYAKING: ARM DAY MEETS ADVENTURE
Looking for a workout that doubles as “me time”? Grab a kayak. Every paddle stroke works your arms, shoulders and core while giving you a front-row seat to nature. Whether you’re gliding down a river or exploring the coast, it’s cardio and strength training rolled into one.
Pro tip: Paddle with a friend. It makes the workout social, and you can motivate each other when your arms start to feel like noodles.
PADDLEBOARDING: CORE ON FIRE (IN A GOOD WAY)
Stand-up paddleboarding (aka SUP) is a vibe. You’ll feel zen floating on the water, but don’t be fooled; it’s a killer workout for your core and balance. Just staying upright works your abs like crazy. And if you’re feeling extra, try paddleboard yoga. Downward dog on the water? Talk about boss moves.
Bonus: It’s also a sneaky way to get a tan while you torch calories.
SWIMMING: THE CLASSIC THAT NEVER FAILS
Swimming laps is like the OG of water workouts. It works everything — legs, arms, core — and it’s easy on the joints. Switch up your strokes to challenge different muscles, or throw in some sprints to boost your endurance. And since you can swim in indoor pools year-round, this one’s a no-excuse option.
Tip: Just 20 minutes of steady laps can leave you feeling refreshed, toned and ready to conquer your day.
WATER RESISTANCE TRAINING: POOLSIDE STRENGTH
Who says lifting weights has to happen in a gym? Grab resistance bands or water dumbbells and turn your pool into a strength studio. Moves like squats, lunges and glute kicks are far more challenging (and fun) in the water.
Why it rocks: The water’s resistance makes every move count, but it also cushions your joints —so it’s perfect if you want to sculpt without the strain.
Summer might be wrapping up, but water fitness? That’s forever. Whether you’re splashing through aerobics, cruising in a kayak or zenning out on a paddleboard, these workouts keep your body strong, your mind refreshed and your joints happy all year long.
So don’t hang up that swimsuit just yet. Grab your towel, dive in and let water fitness be your new secret weapon for looking (and feeling) amazing.