One of the greatest things about summer is being able to enjoy nearby lakes, streams, and rivers. If you are lucky enough to own a boat or know someone who does, then perhaps you can try some water-skiing!
Water-skiing is a great calorie-burning activity. A 150 lb person can burn approximately 125 calories in only 15 minutes of skiing. This is because water-skiing takes a lot of physical endurance, coordination, and muscle power. Practically every muscle in your body is used to keep you upright and balanced on the water – especially if you ride over some waves! Your biceps, triceps, laterals, abdominals, obliques, quadriceps, hamstrings, and many other muscles are working to keep you upright. Because so many muscles are at work, you do not want to over do it to the point where you get extremely exhausted. Remember to water-ski in short bursts to give your body time to recuperate.
Safety
- Always wear a life jacket.
- Have another person besides the driver of the boat act as a spotter.
- The driver should always have his/her eyes on the water, watching for other boats and skiers.
- Check the tow line before skiing.
- The boat should always be traveling at a safe speed.
Adapted from: http://www.sacdelta.com/safety/waterskiing.html
Note: always consult with a physician before starting a new exercise program.