If you’re ready to refresh your fitness routine, it may be time to venture beyond the gym and dive into aqua aerobics. These low-impact classes are a great way to build strength and fitness, make new connections in and out of the pool, and breathe new life into your workouts.
Never joined a water aerobics class before? Read our complete guide on what to expect from the moment you sign up for your first class. Learn about aqua classes, the benefits of aqua aerobics, what you need to bring, and how you can join a supportive water aerobics community at your nearest David Lloyd Club.
What is aqua aerobics?
Aqua aerobics, as you may expect, takes dynamic aerobic movements to the pool. Led by a trained instructor, you can expect a full-body workout that combines cardio and strength-training exercises. And you don’t need to be a strong swimmer: you’ll always be able to reach the pool floor as you jump, kick, and lunge your way through a class.
Your workout will also be enhanced by using a range of specialised aquatic workout equipment. This may include water weights and dumbbells for lifts and extensions to improve arm and leg strength, or kickboards and swim bars for improving coordination and flexibility as you move against the water. And remember, there’s no “first place” in aqua aerobics — all you have to do is enjoy yourself as you move at your own pace.
The benefits of aqua aerobics
Regardless of your age or fitness level, aqua aerobics is an easy way to boost your cardio routine. Here are some of the benefits you can expect to enjoy from regularly taking part in water aerobics classes:
- Low impact on the body: Your natural buoyancy in the water gives your body more support than land-based workouts. That’s why aqua aerobics is a great exercise for people with arthritis or other mobility issues looking to avoid aggravating joint pain or stiffness.
- Cool conditions: Pool workouts keep your body temperature regulated so you can stay engaged longer than with other cardio activities like walking or running.
- Good weight-loss activity: The natural resistance created by the water gives you a full body workout that improves strength and stamina while toning muscles and burning calories.
- Helps you return to exercise: If you’re coming back to exercise after a break, aqua is the perfect class to kickstart a new fitness routine.
- Heart and high-blood pressure-friendly: Taking regular aqua aerobics classes can have a positive impact on your overall wellness, including reducing blood pressure and improving overall heart health.
Is aqua aerobics better than swimming or walking?
All cardio, whether it’s swimming, walking, or aqua aerobics, is good, but if the impact on the body from activities like running or walking is too much, it’s great to have alternatives to turn to. Ideally, you want a cardio session to elevate your heart rate by 60 to 80 per cent for a sustained period of at least 15 minutes. So, if daily walking or swimming becomes difficult or starts to lose its appeal, trying fun water-based activities and classes like aqua aerobics is a great way to shake up your routine.
Aqua aerobics takes the cardiovascular benefits of traditional aerobic exercise and translates them into an activity that’s accessible for everyone. It’s a great choice to safely challenge yourself without risking injury.
Can anyone take aqua aerobics classes?
Aqua aerobics is for anyone looking for a fun, group-focused exercise routine. After all, exercising in the water is really simple, with excellent accessibility for a wide range of mobility and skill levels.
What to bring to a water aerobics class?
Once you’ve signed up for a class, make sure you have the right gear. Our instructors provide the more specialised equipment, but here are the basics you will want to bring to every session:
- Water bottle
- Comfortable, well-fitting swimwear
- Towel and flip flops
Where to take part in aqua aerobics classes?
Make a splash with a community that supports you by signing up for fun-filled aqua classes at David Lloyd Clubs. The water’s just right in our indoor and outdoor pools, plus there’s always time to relax in the spa after class — or grab a coffee with your new classmates. Simply find your closest David Lloyd Club to get started.
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