Helga Stone, left, being given special instructions before class by instructor Cathy Lair; photo by Steve Weiss
The class in session; photo by Steve Weiss
Steve Weiss
While similar to land aerobics in that it focuses on cardiac training, water aerobics adds the component of weight training in the form of water resistance and buoyancy. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2008), most land-based aerobic exercisers don’t incorporate strength training into their schedules and therefore adding aquatic exercise can greatly improve their health. “Over time water aerobics can lead to a reduction of blood pressure and resting heart rate.” Exercising in the water is not only aerobic but also adds strength-training due to the water resistance. Moving your body through the water creates a resistance that will activate muscle groups.
“When you do an exercise on land like jogging, you get an impact on your joints,” says Cathy Lair, an ASFA certified instructor, who offers Aqua Aerobics classes at the SaddleBrooke Ranch indoor pool Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at 9:00 a.m. for about 1-1/2 hours. “When you exercise in the water, you don’t have any gravity forcing your body weight down onto your joints.”
Water aerobics is beneficial to a multitude of participants because the density of the water allows easy mobility for those with arthritis, obesity and other conditions. However, it is an effective way for people of all ages to incorporate aerobics and muscle-strengthening into their weekly exercise schedule. Another benefit is that people do not have to be expert swimmers to participate in water aerobics.
At SaddleBrooke Ranch there are co-ed classes, which include aerobics, strength training, balance and flexibility. And special attention is given to people with physical limitations so that their needs are met. Whether you want to get into condition, want help with a special limitation, or just have a good time with friendly people, you should contact Cathy Lair at [email protected] for more information about water aerobics.