@Laine
Oh yes, I should have clarified that I consider any treading-type exercises in this category. So egg beaters, vertical kicks (flutter, scissors, dolphin, etc.). Two nights ago I did 45min of interval vertical kicks, and my thighs are still feeling it.
@Laine
Do you do these with fins or without?
Francis said:
@Laine
Do you do these with fins or without?
No fins. Just your feet 
You can also try water aerobics—it’s tons of fun!
Loreta said:
You can also try water aerobics—it’s tons of fun!
Also, check if your public pools offer aqua cycling classes. They’re a super great workout.
You could also switch to kicking with a kickboard while keeping your face out of the water—using fins as well will give you a good workout.
I love treading water. I have short fins and webbed gloves, put on my headphones, and go for it. Hands out of the water using only my legs is a great workout, especially with fins. When my legs get tired, I alternate to just using my hands for a good arm workout.
@Asher
Great ideas! Thank you!
@Asher
Why do you prefer this over simply swimming?
Look up some water polo treading workouts. They’re a great workout!! Very demanding.
I lost thirteen pounds in a month just doing this! I attempted to do laps for an hour, but treading with weights melted the pounds off. Plus, even with a kiddie pool in my backyard, the struggle to stay cool really helps too!
Why not try aqua classes? Most people don’t get their heads wet.
Water running is a great and more difficult workout than you might think. Walking and biking could be good preps. I’ve had multiple sinus surgeries, and getting back in the water was never my first exercise. Walking and biking came first. Take it easy; nosebleeds can happen with increased blood pressure post-op.
With all due respect, after sinus surgery, I’d suggest staying out of the pool for a while. I wouldn’t want to risk anything and be sidelined longer.
Focus on dry land workouts: planks, rows for your core, steep hills, or stairs. You might surprised.
Elliptical? Low impact, good cardio.
Jody said:
Elliptical? Low impact, good cardio.
That is a good idea. Thank you!
Good luck with your sinus surgery! I had one recently too! I can’t recommend the Naväge nasal rinse system enough. It’s been amazing post-surgery.
Treading water will certainly provide a workout. If you have a waterproof viewing device, watching a movie while near the pool edge can keep boredom at bay.
Beats drowning for cardio impact ;).
The downside of treading is the boredom. If you don’t mind walking, you could also alternate between water treading & (land) walking on different days. Aim for long walks (1 hour non-stop).