Cycling in water combines the benefits of endurance sports with the therapeutic effects of hydrotherapy. In this second trimester, as your baby grows and settles in more, aquabiking can be a wonderful activity for you! What exactly is it?
What exactly is it?
Aquabiking is a Physical activity is often recommended by doctors as a complement to rehabilitation. But for you, the expectant mother, pedaling on a kind of stationary bike without wheels, fixed to the bottom of a pool, is above all a pleasure! Immersed up to your chest, you simply adjust the bike's resistance level gradually to start a 30 or 45-minute session that will do you a world of good.
What are the benefits?
Excellent for your circulation: Cycling underwater is similar to lymphatic drainage and helps stimulate your venous return, therefore... combat heavy legs and swelling. As a bonus, thanks to the combined action of water resistance and the circular motion of pedaling, you can even gradually get rid of that little bit of cellulite that bothers you...
Good for your whole body: Like road cycling or stationary cycling, aquabiking is an endurance activity that allows you to develop your cardiovascular and pulmonary capacity and stabilize your blood pressure and blood sugar. Perfect for you and your baby!
Great for vitality and morale: Gently but thoroughly toned, your muscles (calves, thighs, glutes, abs) will help you feel more confident and energetic. As for your mood, which can sometimes dip, it will leave you feeling fantastic: by working on endurance in this gentle and stress-free way, you release endorphins more quickly—those famous feel-good hormones—and the effects are felt immediately!
Ideal for relieving joint pain: In the water, your weight is divided by four, making your movements both easier and smoother. This weightless practice allows you to maintain your fitness while avoiding any risk of injury to your back, tendons, and joints. And by restoring proper muscle balance and In addition to its postural benefits , aquabiking also has the ability to relieve pain that you may feel in the hips, knees or lower back.
What precautions should be taken?
Your first instinct is, of course, to consult your doctor. While physical activity is generally only discouraged in cases of heart problems and during flare-ups of osteoarthritis, each case is unique, especially during pregnancy.
Once you have the go-ahead from your doctor, all you need to do is ensure your comfort! Since aquabiking is designed to promote well-being, you should practice at your own pace, make sure the pedals are properly installed, the saddle is adjusted to the correct height, avoid arching your lower back, and keep your head aligned with your spine. Once you get home, remember to do a few stretches to maximize the relaxing and energizing effects of the session.
