Think your typical hot and sweaty spinning class is a good workout? Wait until you try hydrospinning!

Hydrospinning is what’s trending now in water fitness. It’s just your typical cycling class… except your bike is under water.

It combines the energizing atmosphere of the indoor cycling studio with the benefits of water-based exercise.

The concept of hydrospinning was popularized in 2011 by a Frenchman, Alain Lellouche, who named his franchise "Waterbike." The exercise trend spread through Europe before recently coming to the United States. Aqua bikes, or stationary water bikes, were originally created for rehab of knee injuries in athletes but have since become popular among all active individuals.

Does hydrospinning really work?

Riding a stationary bike in a swimming pool may seem like an odd concept at first, but the physical benefits of this innovative new exercise are astounding. The leg strength and cardiovascular benefits of cycling are no secret, but hydrospinning takes the workout to the next level and does so while taking much of the pressure off the joints and muscles. This is particularly beneficial to individuals who have had, or are prone to injury. The buoyancy of the water dissipates the pressure typically caused by gravity on the muscles and joints. In other words, hydrospinning eliminates that stress you feel when your knees and ankles push the pedals outside or in the studio.

The pool water not only supports limbs and joints, but also allows for more exercise positions that would not be physically possible with the average stationary bike, enabling you to reach muscle groups that would have otherwise been missed. Upper body muscles are not always worked out in a regular spinning class, but the buoyancy of the water in hydrospinning allows for positions that work the chest, back, arms and shoulders. This extra workout increases the amount of calories burned and the conditioning effects of the class. Hydrospinning works the upper body at the same time as the lower body — a true full-body workout.

Five Reasons to Try Hydrospinning

1. It’s a great way to protect your joints during exercise
2. It can work more muscle groups than a typical spinning class
3. It’s an excuse to get in the pool during the hot summer
4. You can burn up to 800 calories in a 60 minute class
5. It’s fun, safe, and effective!... Not to mention, a pretty cool thing to tell your friends.

And, if nothing else, hydrospinning is a way to switch up your workout routine. Tired of morning runs and regular cycling classes? Try hydrospinning!