The first Aqua Fit class at Leisure Link Aquatic and Recreation Centre, Waurn Ponds, in Geelong, was a great success. Eight participants turned up for the session on a cold and wet wintery afternoon. But the weather didn’t bother us because inside the building, everyone was so warm and welcoming.
The class began with a roll call followed by an orientation session. Not many of us had met each other previously, but within minutes we were chatting together like old friends.
Soon it was time to get into the pool. The water felt a bit cool at first, but it didn’t take long to warm up. The instructor kept us moving non-stop for 45 minutes, which helped us adjust quickly and stay engaged.
After the warm-up, it was time for the dumbbells – foam weights for water exercise. I had no idea how creative and effective a simple pair of pool dumbbells could be. They added resistance and variety in a way that made the exercises both fun and challenging.
Then it was time to set the dumbbells aside and follow a series of guided movements. The instructor gave great verbal descriptions for each movement with the aid of a microphone to project her voice. With the help of our support people, we were able to follow the exercises and stay in rhythm to the music of ABBA that was playing quietly in the background.
By the end of the class, we all agreed we were physically tired in a satisfying way—but also mentally lifted.
This was my first aquafit class. It won’t be my last.
