Make a Splash With a Water Workout

Of course, lap swimming remains a tried-and-true method of training in water. Even veteran swimmers can spice up their workouts by using equipment (fins and boards) and varying their strokes and speed.

As with any workout, you should warm up properly before beginning any vigorous exercise and cool down for at least five minutes at the end of your session.

Keep a water bottle close at hand so that you can stay well hydrated throughout your workout. If you're exercising in an outdoor pool, be sure to lather on waterproof sunscreen and wear a hat, sunglasses, swim cap and/or goggles as needed to protect your hair, face and eyes. Finally, don't forget to stretch when you are finished.

Judi Sheppard Missett is CEO of Jazzercise Inc., an international aerobic-dance instruction company.

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