Locals swimmers cause a splash at Worldwide Aquathon Day

In Newcastle, 12 swimmers participated at the event for the fourth consecutive year, in a splashing three-hour session at Swim Studio.

November 14, 2019

Tersia Gopi 2 minutes read

On the second Saturday of November each year, the Worldwide Aquathon Day takes place.

This year marked the seventh annual event, which began in East London and where 42 countries participated.

The event quickly gained popularity and by 2015, 76 countries participated at 180 venues throughout the world.

In Newcastle, 12 swimmers participated at the event for the fourth consecutive year, in a splashing three-hour session at Swim Studio.

A fee of R50 was charged, with the proceeds donated to Esperanza Special Needs School.

10 facts about aquacise:

– Exercising in 30°C warm water will decrease the risk and ease the symptoms of heart disease, muscular atrophy, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, high and low blood pressure, lung dysfunction and breathing problems such as asthma.

– It improves circulation, relieves tension and reduces stress.

– Due to the lack of gravity in water, you may feel as if you are floating around at first. You will soon learn to stabilise and then experience the endless benefits of aquacise.

– Water provides a variable load in three-dimensional 360 degrees all around you. It therefore replaces all machines found in a gym. This causes muscles to develop in complete balance, because every movement done against the force of water will require a counter movement against the same force of water to return to the resting position.

– Aquacise is a combination of cardiovascular and resistance strength training, all at once, since every single movement in the water carries a load essential for healthy bone growth (preventing osteoporosis), for building healthy strong muscles, and for sculpting the body.

– The water turbulence burns more energy (calories) and you are constantly working against the resistance your own body created.

– The lack of gravity in water provides you with that lovely buoyant feeling, makes you feel light and comfortable with no jarring effects on your ankle, knee or hip joints, which is extremely beneficial for the little heavier and also during pregnancy. Remember also the water provides a gracious cover for the shy body to hide under.

– Even an injured person can be helped along to recovery.

– Recovery times are shorter and far less painful in water.

– Aquacise can help any sportsman or woman to build strength in his required muscle group.

For more information, visit the aquathon website: www.worldwideaquathonday.com