If you think you can't get a good workout in the pool because you can't swim well, think again.
Kelly Bright, aquatic coordinator at Weber State University, points out that any land exercise, like walking, jogging or lunges, can be done in the water.
She said resistive exercises like bicep curls or tricep extensions can also be done in deeper water with an open palm for more resistance or a closed fist for less resistance.
"Anything you do on land, you can do in the water and it is more challenging. You can work out in shoulder-deep water and work as hard as anyone swimming," she said.
"If you can't swim, you shouldn't be afraid," agrees Jill Barker, water aerobics instructor and assistant director of the Marshall White Community and Recreation Center. "There is so much you can do in the shallows."
She said nonswimmers can also use flotation belts in deeper water.
Ina James of West Weber has been swimming for 13 years and admits she is still scared of the water.
"I'm starting to swim. I didn't dare. I'm doing a half-mile now. I finally made myself put my face in and swim and I kind of like it," she said.
Tiffany Staheli, manager of the North Shore Aquatic Center in North Ogden, said it is important for swimmers and nonswimmers alike to swim with a buddy and to stay at a depth where they are comfortable.
When alone time at the pool isn't possible, family time at the pool can also be a good workout.
"If you are taking the family to the pool, tread water. Our body isn't made to swim and the easiest way to overcome that is on our back, ... the worst position is standing up. It kicks your buns to stay afloat. You can tread or jog and be right by the kids," she said.
Adult swimming lessons are taught at the Clearfield Aquatic Center, Marshall White Community Center in Ogden, Roy Recreation Complex and Weber State University.
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