by Kelly Young

I inadvertently took a Water Aerobics class this week, which ended up being a good thing because my challenge of trying a new fitness class each week has been challenged by lack of time lately. So, when I went to swim laps at My Oasis (which used to be called Ladies Only) and the pool was completely filled with ladies ready for a water workout, I decided to join them. This way, not only did I get to work out, but I convinced myself that this would motivate me to get back to my weekly challenge. 

I started the class feeling a bit out of place – I was by far the youngest person and clearly the only one who hadn’t been before. The song “one of these things does not belong here” ran through my head several times during class. It didn’t take me long to figure out that these women come together regularly to get caught up, gossip and have their own “girl time”. They were kind enough to welcome me to the class, but I felt more like the team mascot than one of the girls (again, it could be that I was probably 15-20 years younger than everyone).  I enjoyed the camaraderie, but I was ready to workout.  

With music playing (the Oldies), we jogged, jumped, kicked, moved and splashed around the pool for 60 minutes. I was glad to see the water weights come out mid-way through class as we incorporated upper body strength exercises to our routine. We used them to do bicep curls, tricep curls and some water punches. We also used the water noodles to balance as we treaded water and rode bikes. We spent a little time on abs, by twisting and tucking too. 

I read online that the number of calories you burn doing water aerobics depends on four factors: your weight, how hard you work, how in shape you are and your metabolism. An average person weighing 130 pounds can burn up to 236 calories per hour doing water aerobics. A 155-pound person can burn 280 calories, while someone who weighs 190 pounds can burn up to 345 calories.  (http://www.ehow.com/facts_5572071_many-calories-burned-during-aquacise.html)  

I don’t want to water down the importance of water aerobics. While originally aimed at the over-50 crowd because it’s easier on the joints than traditional impact aerobics, my guess is there are other ways to step up the routine with harder movements and more challenging routines. To their credit, the instructors at My Oasis have created a great water routine for the women taking that class. But for me, I think I’ll stick to swimming laps and catching up on the latest gossip from my new friends in the locker room.  

If you’re interested in learning more about water aerobics – or seeing who offers them around town, just google water aerobics, Indianapolis. There are different levels of classes offered, so just look for one that matches your interest and your level of fitness. Have fun!

Kelly Young owns Baise Communications, with a focus on doing great work for great organizations. With FitCity as one of her clients, she’s committed to moving more and eating healthier (or at least giving it her best shot). Kelly has completed three Olympic Triathlons and several Century rides with Team in Training. She lives in New Palestine with her husband and two young kids – all of whom find ways to support her crazy fitness phases. Contact Kelly at kelly@baisecommunications.com.