Water aerobics make a splash for health, fun

You know a form of exercise is going to be fun when the first step calls for hitting the pool.

Fans of water aerobics say their favorite exercise isn't just easy on the body and appropriate for just about anyone. It's also just plain fun.

Instructor Ruth Carroll says her water aerobics classes offered through Yuma Parks and Recreation boost people's health — and spirits.

“Water aerobics assists people to get in shape and to interact with other people,” Carroll said. “This is a good way for people to meet new people and find a way to get healthy. ... We enjoy going out to lunch and we get together for potlucks.”

Yuma Parks and Recreation kicked off a new session of water aerobics classes this week through April 27, 2012. Classes are being held at Carver Pool but will move to Marcus Pool shortly.

Parks and Recreation's summer guide touts the classes offering “an energetic ‘no' impact water aerobics workout that allows participants to exercise at their own pace — and they don't need to know how to swim. The class is geared to strengthen muscles, build endurance, increase efficiency of the cardiovascular system and increase flexibility.”

Carroll said there are many reasons people choose water aerobics for one of their paths to good health.

“Working out in the water makes it easier to get the blood flowing and keeps the pain levels down. It is also a good workout for the heart. Little to low impact is a great workout for anyone. Working with weights is much easier in the water than on land, hence building muscles and a better vascular system.”

But don't get the idea that there's no real exercise going on with water aerobics. It turns out that any stereotypes about the exercise being skimpy on real results just aren't true.

“Yes, there is a false reputation of it being too light of a workout,” Carroll admitted, “but all ages that participate leave realizing that they get as much of a workout as they put into it. Examples are the use of water weights, fun noodles and other workout equipment that assist in building a good aerobic and muscle-toning exercise with the resistance of water.”

To find out more about classes, go to www.ci.yuma.az.us/1357.htm or call 373-5243.