Staying active on holiday doesn’t have to mean hitting the gym or going for a long run—especially when the weather is warm and there’s a pool or a beach nearby.
Water workouts are one of the best ways to stay fit while still feeling like you’re on a break. They’re fun, easy on the joints, and perfect for all ages and fitness levels.
Whether you’re swimming laps, splashing with the kids, or trying something new like paddleboarding, water-based activities offer a full-body workout disguised as leisure.
Here’s your guide to the most enjoyable low-impact water workouts that will leave you feeling refreshed rather than drained.
Table of Contents
6 Low-Impact, High-Fun Water Workouts:
Aqua Aerobics
Aqua aerobics, or water aerobics, is a group exercise class held in a pool, typically set to upbeat music. The resistance of the water adds intensity to your movements, while the buoyancy reduces strain on your joints. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to burn calories, improve cardiovascular fitness, and strengthen muscles—without the usual post-workout soreness.
Many holiday resorts, including cruise ships and wellness retreats, offer these classes in the mornings. It’s a social and energising way to start the day that won’t leave you exhausted.
Pool Walking or Jogging
Believe it or not, simply walking or jogging through water is an excellent low-impact workout. The resistance of the water makes each step more challenging, engaging your core, legs, and arms. It’s especially beneficial for people recovering from injury or looking for a gentler form of cardio.
Start by walking across the shallow end of the pool and gradually increase your speed or change directions. You can also incorporate arm movements or light water weights for added resistance.
Paddleboarding
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is not just a trendy watersport—it’s a fantastic workout that improves balance, core strength, and coordination. Because you’re constantly stabilising your body on the board, your abs are engaged the entire time, even if you’re just paddling at a slow pace.
What makes paddleboarding particularly appealing is that it doesn’t feel like a workout. You’re gliding across a lake or along a calm beach, soaking up the sun, and enjoying nature—all while giving your body a solid challenge.
Midway through your holiday, when you’re looking for something new, head to a resort like Manor & Ashbury Resorts, which offers a wide range of aquatic and fitness activities tailored for all ages. Their facilities are perfect for mixing leisure with movement in a way that feels rewarding, not rigorous.
Water Volleyball
Water volleyball combines all the fun of a beach holiday with the benefits of a light cardio workout. It’s played in waist-deep water, which naturally adds resistance to every movement—jumping, reaching, hitting—all without the impact on your joints that comes with land-based sports.
You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy a game. All you need is a net, a ball, and a group of willing participants. It’s a great family or group activity that encourages teamwork, laughter, and a healthy dose of competition.
Aqua Yoga
Aqua yoga is a gentle, meditative workout that combines traditional yoga poses with the natural resistance and support of water. It’s particularly good for improving flexibility, reducing stress, and increasing body awareness. The warm water also helps muscles relax more deeply, enhancing the restorative benefits of each pose.
Aqua yoga is often held in warm, shallow pools and is suitable for all fitness levels, including beginners and older adults. It’s a soothing way to wind down after a day of exploring or activity.
Swimming with a Twist
Of course, swimming itself is an excellent workout, but you can switch things up to make it more fun. Try interval swimming, where you alternate between fast and slow laps. Or create mini-challenges for yourself, like swimming with a float or using different strokes every lap.
If you’re with family or friends, organise games like water tag, pool races, or underwater treasure hunts. These add a playful element to your swim that makes time fly.
Final Thoughts
Water workouts are the perfect answer for those looking to stay active on holiday without sacrificing relaxation. They’re fun, functional, and don’t require advanced skills or equipment. Whether you’re gliding across a paddleboard, bouncing through aqua aerobics, or stretching in a poolside yoga session, you’ll be giving your body a break from impact while still reaping the benefits of movement.
Next time you’re planning your getaway, consider how you can make the most of your time in the water. With the right activities, staying fit can feel like part of the fun, not something you have to schedule around it.
