Low-intensity water aerobics with a social twist 

Who likes Aqua Basics classes? 

Aqua Basics is a class is for men and women 18 and older looking for a relatively low intensity class in a well-maintained pool. Men and women talk and visit while they exercise strategically in a low impact kind of way. Participants in this class are often new to water exercise, pregnant women, people with injuries or seniors who need a gentle beginner level water class. For people who are recovering from an injury or surgery, this class is a resource for rehab and exactly what they need to get back into exercise. Low impact exercises allow class members to be social and have community. Everyone is welcome, so feel free to check out these light water aerobics exercises and make some new friends.    

What is an Aqua Basics class? 

Aqua Basics is a water aerobics exercise class with a casual, not competitive, atmosphere. Gym members receive the benefits of low intensity exercise that is easy on the joints, opportunities to socialize with other members, and a little more one-on-one attention from the instructor.  

Water aerobics instructors guarantee members will work every muscle group at least once each class. Instructors lead class by demonstrating moves from the pool deck or in the water with class participants. When in the water, instructors use more verbal queues to guide the class.  

One Aqua Basics exercise routine is called traveling, where the instructor leads members in a “walking” travel from end to end of the pool for 10 to 15 minutes. The next level includes basic water aerobics exercises such as lower intensity cardio rounds while traveling at a reasonable pace for class members.   

In addition to traveling, which provides the body with some resistance against the water, members also get to do strengthening exercises with equipment like pool noodles and aqua dumbbells. Members can travel with noodles, using them like they are riding exercise bikes across the length of the pool.   

The aqua dumbbells provide additional fun as members use them to punch and kick while standing in the water. Combination movements involve a punch and a kick at the same time. Members may be instructed to push the aqua dumbbells down toward their feet, from side to side, or even to push them up into the air over their heads a little. There are not a lot of overhead movements and modifications are available for members who may have shoulder injuries. Various aqua dumbbell weights accommodate every member. Members who want more challenge can take advantage of the heavier (more resistant) weights. People who need less resistance have access to smaller aqua dumbbells, so members can easily choose what resistance level is best for them. While in the water, you might be asked to jog in place with appropriate aqua weights in hand for added resistance.   

In this beginner class, participants do less jumping or overhead movements. Some body weight exercises include traveling, light jogging, basic punching, basic kicking, front and side kicks, heel taps, arm movements that mimic the breaststroke, and the hamstring curl (butt kick). Instructors may even incorporate some aqua stretches, which help improve flexibility.  

Many members like the water because it decreases their pain, increases their mobility and keeps their muscles strong. Pain can be decreased because the water helps support their body weight and joints. Participants are trying to prevent muscle loss as they age, and many see results of increased muscle strength and mobility, especially their core. 

Exercises like these are fun in the water, especially when the instructor plays some light background music just for fun. This is not a pre-choreographed class. 

Where and when does the class meet? 

Aqua Basics classes meet in the pools at the North, South and Bossier WK Fitness & Wellness Centers. Members meet regularly two or three days per week with the same instructor, or they can try different instructors at different centers multiple times a week for added variety. Look for the interactive class schedule on the website.  

Why do Aqua Basics? 

Aqua Basics allows people to get physical exercise in a low-intensity and low-pressure social environment. This class helps people improve their flexibility, increase their mobility and strengthen their body in a safe and low impact kind of way. Plus, it builds community as participants exercise and socialize in the pool. If you’re looking for a water class and would like to try water aerobics exercises for the first time, Aqua Basics is a great introduction. Come see how the water feels for you.