Crossover Tread
This exercise requires double effort. It requires extra focus, and you must move with intention. Crossover Tread might seem tricky at first, but once you get the pattern right, you will find the movement very natural. We can break down the movement into two:
-
the crossover motion of the arms (moving them across the chest).
-
Leg kicks to help you stay afloat and balanced
The exercise may seem tricky at first, but once you get the pattern right, you will find the movement very natural.
Getting Started
First, understand the movements involved. This exercise combines water treading kicks with crossover arm movements. You can imagine yourself doing both simultaneously. Second, put your aqua belt on and find a comfortable spot in the pool where the water is deep enough for you to float vertically without touching the floor.
How to Perform
Begin by kicking to stay balanced on the spot. After you establish a steady kick, start the crossover arm movements. Push your arms out to the sides, then push them in front of your body. If you find it tricky to coordinate your arms and legs, practice them separately first. Become comfortable with each movement before doing them together.
The trick is to stay put. Your arms generate more force when they close than when they open, which means that you will move back. You need strong kicks to counteract this. If you are still struggling with balance, try widening your leg kicks, slightly bending your knees, or finding your own kicking rhythm that works.
After you become comfortable with the basic crossover tread, you can increase the intensity and focus more on pushing the water with your arms. And as always, listen to your body for a safe workout.
Breathing
Inhale while you spread your arms and exhale as you bring them together. When you spread your arms, you help expand your lungs, which makes inhaling easier. When your arms close, your lungs contract, expelling air from your lungs easier.
Muscles Worked
Crossover Tread is a dynamic movement that targets all the major leg muscles, in addition to the chest and upper back muscles (triggered by the arms), which are the focus of this exercise. The arm movements are the key to create strong resistance.
Check Out More Related Exercises
Copyright ©Aqua-Exercises.com 2014 all rights reserved