Stronger Core, Better Posture, Mind Body Connection in a Healing Water Environment 

Who likes Aqua Pilates classes? 

Movements in the class help you increase flexibility while challenging you to maintain core stabilization, balance and postural alignment. While Aqua Pilates is a perfect class for special populations, members of all ages and abilities do enjoy this class and encourage each other before, during and after class. This mind-body class takes place in a heated pool. It guides you to quiet your busy mind as you gently work toward better fitness.  

What is an Aqua Pilates class?

Aqua Pilates is a relatively new form of mind-body exercise that mimics the studio version of Pilates but is done in the supportive environment of water. The class is built on six principles: centering, concentration, control, precision, breath and flow. The structure and format of exercises provide a unique cardio challenge while also lengthening and strengthening your posture. It's also good for your balance due to the buoyant resistance of water. 

Thanks to the water environment, Aqua Pilates is suitable if you have conditions such as arthritis, Parkinson’s, fibromyalgia, stroke, heart disease, obesity and PTSD. Case studies show it effectively increases dynamic stability and core strength for participants who have physical disabilities. Prior studies found that Aqua Pilates participants achieved 10% to 62% increases in their forward reach measurements. The study also showed participants improved their reach past 10 inches, which indicates improved core strength and dynamic balance.   

Our certified group instructor provides skilled exercise adaptations if you need it, so the class is safe for members who may have multiple disabilities. Patients with spinal injuries (compressions, surgeries, fusions, scoliosis, osteoporosis, osteopenia) can safely strengthen the spine and core stabilizers. The Aqua Pilates method may benefit patients with multiple sclerosis or lupus because it is not too taxing. 

Benefits of Aqua Pilates:

• Breath and posture – Correct alignment and breathing releases tension and increases lung capacity 
• Stability and balance – Learn to balance against the water’s buoyancy to help prevent falls
• Flexibility – Increase range of motion with Pilates stretches. Men specifically benefit in this area with the buoyancy that assists stretches.
• Core strength – All exercises are core-centric, meaning they originate from the center, or core, of your body
• Muscle strength – Spine, pelvis, hips and abdominals, also known as the “powerhouse”
• Rehabilitation – Recover from an injury or continue gentle exercises post-rehab
• Joint friendly – Low impact exercises as the spine and joints are unloaded in the water; all movements are non-compressive
• Personalized – The intensity is up to the individual 

While the instructor brings a prepared workout, members can personalize Aqua Pilates movements to increase their personal benefit. Members can use a variety of water tools in this class such as pool noodles, buoyancy balls and hand weights. The pool wall takes the place of a traditional studio Pilates mat and members report great satisfaction. 

When and where does the Aqua Pilates class meet? 

Aqua Pilates meets daily in the pool at WK Health & Fitness Center on Greenwood Road. Review our interactive online schedule for more information. 

You may wear any type of swim clothing, whether a swimsuit or other appropriate swimwear. Water shoes with a grip bottom may also benefit so you don’t slip. Towels are provided and showers are available for use before and after class. The pool is indoor and heated, so this class is conducted year-round in comfort and safety. 

Why do Aqua Pilates? 

The Aqua Pilates purpose is to lengthen and stretch all major muscle groups, as well as increase core strength and dynamic balance. Special populations who may not be able to do Pilates exercises on land are able to enjoy this class and reap the rewards of consistent participation. This simple but effective water workout strengthens your core and allows you to be at your best in your daily life.