Beat the heat this summer — and stay active — by exercising in the water. Water exercises can improve muscle strength. And many people with back problems or joint pain find they can exercise longer in the water.

Research also shows that exercising in the water – whether walking, swimming laps or doing aerobics – can help with weight loss, boost mood and improve brain health.* Here are a few water workouts to try. If you don’t live near a pool, you can try moves like jumping jacks, walking laps and stretching outside of the water.

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1. Water aerobics

Water aerobics is easier on your joints, compared to working out on the hard ground. And it can help you improve your balance. See if your local community center has group water aerobics classes.

Or make up your own fitness routine to try in waist-high water. Mix leg kicks, squats, lunges and jumping jacks. You can also try these moves outside of the water. But remember to check with your provider before starting new exercises.

2. Do laps around the pool

Swimming is great for improving heart health, lowering blood pressure and even reducing stress. Pick your favorite swim stroke, such as freestyle or breaststroke, and swim a few laps around the pool.

Not in the mood for swimming? Walk or jog laps around the shallow end of the water. Either way, water moves are great for your muscles and bones.* Or try a brisk walk around the block or park if a pool isn’t nearby.

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A registered nurse is just a phone call away. Call our 24-Hour Nurse Line at 1-855-493-7019 (TTY: 711) to speak with a nurse, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If it’s an emergency, dial 911.

3. Stretching

Water exercises don’t have to be hard, heart-pumping workouts. They’re also great for focusing on flexibility. Head to the shallow end of the pool and try simple stretches. Get your joints and muscles moving by lifting your arms above your head, bending your knees and stretching out your back. If you don’t live near a pool, you can practice stretches from the comfort of home.

How to use your SilverSneakers benefits

As an Aetna® Medicare Advantage member, you have a SilverSneakers® fitness benefit. Some SilverSneakers locations have swimming pools and aqua fitness classes. Plus, there are online classes for at-home workouts when it’s too hot to go outside.

You can also take live online classes in nutrition, cooking, travel and more with SilverSneakers GetSetUp program. It’s a great way to meet new friends and stay connected while beating the heat.

To start, go to SilverSneakers.com/GetStarted. Or call Aetna Member Services at 1-833-570-6670 (TTY: 711). They are available 8 AM to 8 PM Monday to Friday. They can answer any questions you have about your benefits.

Check your coverage

Log in to your secure member website at AetnaMedicare.com/Login to check your plan benefits and costs.

*FOR THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF SWIMMING: Farinha C, Teixeira A, et al. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. Impact of Different Aquatic Exercise Programs on Body Composition, Functional Fitness and Cognitive Function of Non-Institutionalized Elderly Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial. September 2021. Accessed June 21, 2024.

*FOR THE BENEFITS OF WATER EXERCISE FOR MUSCLES AND BONES SOURCE: Harvard Health Publishing. Simplify your workout with lap swimming. July 1, 2019. Accessed June 21, 2024.

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