By now, we all know the benefits of water exercise on our health and wellness. But now there’s a new twist on water exercise; yoga. I’m always looking for new ways to work out, as the same old work out gets very boring. Plus, you want to keep your body guessing in order to make improvements. Doing the same old exercise routine week after week and month after month doesn’t do much to improve your fitness. This has lead me to my latest find, water yoga.

Below you will find some of the poses, to be performed in shallow water:

Tree Pose: While standing and balancing on one leg, bring the opposite foot on the side of your inner calf. Join your hands in a prayer position and slowly extend them straight above your head. Or, to make it easier, place the arms in the prayer position at the center of your chest Hold this pose for a minimum of 10 seconds up to a minute. Don’t forget to take slow, deep breaths. Switch sides and hold for an equal amount of time. To modify this to make it easier, you can bring your opposite foot on the side of your ankle, rather than your inner calf.

Benefits: Strengthens glutes and quads while stretching abductors and lats

Corpse Pose: Lie on your back and float, with your body extending stretching and lengthening your body. If it is difficult to float, use a foam noodle under the armpits. Allow your arms and legs to relax and be supported by the water.

Benefits: Promotes calmness and eliminates fatigue

Warrior Pose: From a standing position, feet are spread apart about 3.5 to 4 feet. Arms are raised parallel to the floor, gaze is forward. Left foot is turned 90 degrees to the left and the knee is bent. Be sure to keep the knee does not pass beyond the ankle.

Benefits: Strengthens upper body, quads, and glutes

Triangle Pose: Spread your legs apart about 4 feet and stretch your body to your left, moving from the pelvis and extending over your left leg. Make both arms perpendicular to the floor, the left hand resting on the calf of the left foot. The right hand reaching up straight.

Benefits: Strengthens arms while stretching upper and lower back

These are just a few of the poses you can try. If you are already practicing yoga, see what other poses you can do in the water. If you are a beginner, conduct an internet search for more ideas. Keep checking back for more water exercise options from Watercolors Custom Pools, your Atlanta Pool Builder.