In this issue...

• CCRCs — Going Above and Beyond
• If You Have Questions, Morningside Has the Answers
• A Revitalizing Pool Workout — Summertime or Anytime!

A Revitalizing Pool Workout — Summertime or Anytime!

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What may seem like a casual swim, can really be great exercise. "Pool exercise gives the same benefits as high-impact aerobics, but is easier on the body." says Julie See, president of the Aquatic Exercise Association. "As you get older, your body changes and you can't always do a lot of high-impact activity."

In particular, aquatic exercise is easy on the joints — and contrary to popular wisdom, it really does burn serious calories. "The research clearly shows that if you're training hard in water, you can burn up to 400 calories an hour," See says.

Try the following fitness routine for exercise that's easier on — and better for — the body! Or better yet, join us at Morningside for one of our water aerobics or fitness classes.

• Walk/Jog. Start with five to six minutes of pool walking or running. Get a good pair of water shoes or, if you're doing deep-water running or walking, a water buoyancy belt. Move your legs using the same motions you would for land-based exercise, keeping your ankles and feet pliable as you step through the water.
• Jumping Jacks. Standing in chest-deep water, do 32 jumping jacks. Don't raise your arms above the water's surface; to get the greatest benefit, keep your limbs in the water at all times. Then bend your knees and hips as if you're sitting with your shoulders right at water level, and do another 32 jumping jacks, again not raising your arms above the water's surface.
• Sideways Walk/Jog. Spend the next five to ten minutes walking or jogging sideways across the pool, while in an upright position.
• Cross-country Ski. Mimic a cross-country skiing motion by placing one leg forward and one leg back then jumping to switch legs, swinging your arms in the opposite direction from your legs. Do this motion 32 times with the water at chest level, then crouch down to a sitting position with the water at shoulder level and repeat the movement 32 more times.
• Repeat Entire Routine. Then cool down with five to 10 minutes of water-based stretching, using the same types of stretches you would do on land.

On your next visit to Morningside, make sure to visit our beautiful swimming pool, spa and aquatic exercise area.