Aerobic exercise is an important component of holistic health. Your doctor probably reminds you often that a healthy heart is one that can work hard, and that’s exactly what aerobic exercise trains your body to do. Also known as cardio, some examples of aerobic exercise include running, cycling, and rowing. But for some, those traditional forms of cardio might be uncomfortable. Whether you have joint pain or simply don’t like being sweaty, you might enjoy doing your cardio in the pool. And don’t worry, you might not have to get your hair wet as traditional swimming isn’t your only option. Allow me to introduce: water aerobics.
What is water aerobics?
As the name suggests, water aerobics is aerobic exercise done in the water. Different from traditional face-in-the-water swimming, water aerobics combines heart-rate elevating activity with refreshing water for a cooler, lower-impact workout. But don’t be fooled, although it’s not on land water aerobics can get your blood pumping.
What to expect in a water aerobics class:
Each water aerobics class is different, but many of them follow a similar format. Typically you begin with a warm-up that lasts several minutes, so that you can elevate your heart rate and prepare for more intense exercise. Next, you’ll likely have a longer period of moderate intensity exercise, which might consist of swimming up and down the length of the pool, treading, or moving your arms and legs against the resistance of the water. Sometimes, instructors will also incorporate a strength-training component to the class, where you may use water weights, gloves, or pool noodles to increase the resistance against your muscles. And in the end, your workout is finished with a cooldown and light stretching.
Who might water aerobics be good for?
As I mentioned before, aquatic classes are a great choice for people who don’t like traditional cardio exercises. Water can help keep you cool, but it can also ease the pressure on your joints. This is why water aerobics is also a popular choice for aging populations, as conditions such as arthritis may inhibit you from traditional aerobic activity. But, water aerobics are great for all populations, and it’s easy to adjust the intensity to match your needs.
What water aerobics classes do we offer at Merritt Eldersburg?
Mondays and Fridays we offer a deep water aerobic class from 9:00 - 10:00 am, then an aqua aerobic class right after from 10:00 - 11:00 am. We also offer a deep and shallow water combo class on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30 - 11:15 am, and Aqua Zumba on Wednesdays from 9:00 - 10:00 am.
If you don’t want the intensity of an aqua aerobics class, we also offer lighter, more restorative classes in our recreational pool. We offer Aqua Yoga from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm on Mondays, Arthritis plus from 9:30 - 10:15 am on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and Tone & Balance from 10:00 - 11:00 am on Wednesdays.
Shannon McGoey, CPT is a personal trainer at Merritt Clubs Eldersburg.
