Workout in the water

Pool workouts are hot, especially group exercise classes. The latest ones incorporate Pilates, kickboxing and strength training, targeting all muscle groups and building endurance.

Working out in the water is excellent cross-training. On land you're using gravity, but in water you're using the water's properties -- it's heavier than air, and you have resistance in all directions.

Water also provides bones and joints with a break from constant pounding -- a big boon for those who run or play sports such as soccer, volleyball and basketball. You can exercise at a high intensity with zero impact.