The Sparta-White County YMCA is offering water aerobics classes starting Monday, June 9.
Sparta-White County YMCA Fitness and Wellness Director Nina Weston said water aerobics is a low-impact cardio workout done in a pool. Weston said the class is good for people recovering from injuries or people with joint issues who want less impact than a traditional workout. Weston said water aerobics is a good strength training workout.
“You’re getting a natural strength from that viscosity of the water,” Weston said. “You’re actually having to work a little harder against the current of the water. We do have large classes, so it makes it so you’re getting a great workout without those negative impacts.”
In addition to natural resistance, Weston said water can soften the impact of movements like jumping. Weston said participants do not need to know how to swim to participate.
“Most of the water aerobics classes are held between three and five feet of water,” Weston said. “If the class is full and you have to go a little bit deeper, or the water is over your head, we do have a few flotation belts that can help. If you’re in deeper, the instructor is good about showing you moves that can be done with the aqua belt.”
Weston said water aerobics workouts are for people of all fitness levels, and they can be modified to better fit participants individual needs.
“If something is bothering [participants], they can go up to our instructors after the class and say, ‘Hey, this is bothering me,’ and they can get some kind of modification for them to try,” Weston said.
Weston said the classes are taught outdoors, and are a good chance to get out in the sun. Weston said people of all ages try the class.
Weston said classes are held Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. as well as Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6 p.m.
