Yoga in the pool

Just in time to cool off during the hottest summer days, we're taking yoga into the water. Aqua yoga is a terrific activity to perform after a high-intensity workout, as a cool-down stretch, or any time of the day on its own. (For more exercises you can do in the water pick up the July 2004 issue of Canadian Living magazine.)

The following yoga positions are modified for the water - to keep your head above the surface. Ideal water depth is nipple-high. If the water is too shallow, crouch down a little and keep your knees slightly bent. Katharine Brown, WaterART™ trainer and service-provider consultant for the Canadian Centre for Sports in Ontario, recommends the following exercises.

Warrior I

Strengthens: Quads, glutes, and upper body
Stretches: Lats, hip flexors

Place feet leg-length apart, and lunge one leg forward. When your shoulder comes out of the water, slowly lift arms to the sky – to avoid stress on the shoulder. The toes of your forward-positioned foot should point straight ahead, and the toes of your rear-positioned foot should turn slightly inwards.

Sink your lower body into the water, while lifting the upper body (stretching out, at the ribs). Your arms should be straight (avoid locking the elbow joint). Ensure the outer edge of the back foot is pressed into the floor, and then square the hips and shoulders, making sure they're facing forward. Squeeze the shoulder blades together and lift chest up and forward. Tuck your pelvis in and push your tailbone towards the pool bottom, keeping your feet in alignment and avoid moving your knee past your ankle. Ensure that your arms are beside your ears. Hold for 10 seconds to one minute, depending on your comfort level. Switch sides and hold for the same amount of time.

Need to get away? Try a yoga retreat!