When the weekly weather report consists of a string of several 90-degree days in a row, an outdoor jog can lose its appeal. But hitting the pavement isn't nearly the only way to get your heart rate up. Moving your workout inside is always an option, but if you have a backyard pool [1], why not cool off and get in your cardio at the very same time?
Whether you prefer a swimming set or aqua aerobics, this swim gear — from kickboards to water shoes to UV-shielding goggles — will give your water workout an extra boost.
Sporti Aquatic Fitness Light Dumbbells Water Weights
Yes, you can tone and strengthen your arms through resistance training even in the water. Just enlist the help of a set of the Sporti Aquatic Fitness Light Dumbbells Water Weights [2] ($15). These light water dumbbells have a resistance weight of around four pounds and are made with a foam that won't absorb water.
Speedo Aquatic Fitness Gloves
Pull more water during your water aerobics workout with a pair of Speedo Aquatic Fitness Gloves [3] ($25). Available in four different sizes, the gloves are made with a rubber palm for proper grip while you're in the pool.
Fitness Gear Kickboard
Isolate your leg muscles and kick from one side of the pool to the other with the ergonomically designed Fitness Gear Kickboard [4] ($25), complete with gripped handles.
Women's Surfwalker Pro Mesh
Aqua shoes are sometimes recommended for water aerobics workouts — consider the Speedo Women's Surfwalker Pro Mesh [5] ($38). The multicolored slip-ons — which are also available in six different colours — are made with a breathable mesh upper, perfect for walking poolside, and a water-resistant insole that'll come in handy once you're submerged in the pool.
Nike Solid Silicone Training Cap
Pull your hair up into the Nike Solid Silicone Training Cap [6] ($10), so it stays out of your eyes (and dry!) during all your water workouts.
Speedo Vanquisher 2.0 Mirrored Goggles
The Speedo Vanquisher 2.0 Mirrored Goggles [7] ($22) are made with UV protection to protect your eyes during outdoor workouts in the sun. Another major bonus for your pool time visibility? Antifog lenses.
Rainleaf Microfibre Towel
The Rainleaf Microfibre Towel [8] ($10) has over 2,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, praised for its superabsorbent and fast-drying qualities. Use it to quickly towel off after finishing the pool portion of your workout. The medium — 20 x 40 inches — will only set you back $10.
TYR Big Mesh Mummy Backpack
You can toss all your swim gear the TYR Big Mesh Mummy Backpack [9] ($20) without worrying about a puddle forming at the bottom. While the overall breathability and drainage are both major bonuses, isolated pockets for your water bottle and cap and goggles make this carryall worth the buy.
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