Make a splash with water fitness

December 12, 8:24 PMBaltimore Healthy Living ExaminerMila Lowery

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I fell in love with water aerobics over the summer. I was becoming a bit bored with my workout routine and needed something new to try. I saw that my gym offered water aerobics classes so I decided to check it out.

I had never taken water aerobics before, but I did spend a lot of time at the pool as a kid and never lost my love for swimming. I am a social exerciser, too. The machines are OK, but I prefer the fitness classes, where I can interact with others. It's much more fun. I went into the class not knowing what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised. You get a total-body workout — both cardio and strength training — and no, it's not only for senior citizens. Water fitness can be beneficial for people with injuries, joint issues, or body weight that makes it difficult to exercise on land. But it's truly for all ages. I am 33, of normal weight, and no injuries (knock on wood). I do a variety of workouts: kickboxing, walking, running, cycle classes, step aerobics, strength training classes, elliptical and circuit training. Still, I come out of water aerobics feeling a burn in muscles I didn't know existed. The water's resistance makes you work harder than on land, but at the same time, it doesn't feel too strenuous. As with any new exercise, it's important to get your doctor's OK, especially if you're recovering from an injury.

In addition, there is something being offered in more and more gyms these days called aquatic personal training. Aquatic personal trainers use a variety of exercise equipment, and the program is tailored to each client's unique needs. If you like the idea of exercising in the water and need someone to kick your butt, an aquatic personal trainer may be worth looking into.

If you belong to Merritt, the Canton location will be having an aquatic personal training seminar Tuesday, Dec. 16 at 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.  Here is the info:
"Are you looking for a personalized low impact exercise that will increase strength, improve flexibility, and help you with your cardio-respiratory endurance? Then Aquatic Personal Training is for YOU! Join us for a free seminar  to learn more about what Aquatic Personal Training has to offer. For more information, contact Bren Simpson at bsimpson@merrittclubs.com."

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For more info: 
Article on water fitness
Links to various resources on water aerobics and aqua fitness