Aqua Aerobics… Our New Best Friend as We Age?

I never thought I would be jogging, boxing, jumping, lunging, skiing and dancing at my age, but to my surprise it is incredibly easy, even with a serious knee injury! 

How I Got Injured

About 18 months ago I was staying in a Buddhist Monastery, carrying sacks of rice (I know, crazy in my 60s!) when I tore my meniscus disc. This led to severe osteoarthritis developing in my knee, and I am now on the waiting list for a total knee replacement.

I used to walk up to around 10,000 steps most days, but recently I can just about manage 2,000. I was beginning to feel sluggish, lacking energy and was starting to put on weight… the last thing my poor knee needed!

Water Saved the Day

I knew I had to do something, so I enrolled at my local swimming pool for aqua aerobics classes. The class was for around 50 people (mostly women) aged between 50 and 85. As I watched people slowly make their way to the pool, some with sticks or frames, I could see the pain etched on many of their faces from pain, injuries or disabilities.

Then an amazing thing happened! As soon as they were in the water, they swam or floated away as if nothing was wrong with them :). As I stood there watching, I couldn’t believe the transformation.

The Class 

Our instructor, Clare, ramped up the music (‘60s and ‘70s of course!) and within seconds we were jogging, jumping, kicking, skiing, and singing. I had no idea I would still be able to do these activities at my age! As I looked around, all I could see were smiles :).

After a 45-minute workout, where we all were encouraged to go at our own pace, I wasn’t even out of breath, even though I had given it my all. I knew my limitations and didn’t push my knee too hard, but even while I was still in the pool, I could feel flexibility that I hadn’t experienced for a long time. 

The Science Behind It

Aqua aerobics is backed up by science and each qualified instructor has to learn about biomechanics (science of movement including muscles, bones, tendons and ligaments) and hydrodynamics (which concerns forces acting on, or exerted by, fluids). Using these they devise a programme of exercise where the body uses the weight and force of the water, as well as the buoyancy it provides, allowing you to exercise in a safe environment… and no sweating :)

It Doesn’t Take Long

After four months, I have already noticed a real difference. Although I know it will not repair my knee, it is less painful and far more flexible, allowing me to be a little more mobile than before. I have also lost a few pounds that I had recently gained, which can only be a bonus. Interestingly, there was one thing I hadn’t expected… my pelvic floor was so much stronger, resulting in fewer nighttime trips to the bathroom at night :)

An Additional Bonus

On top of all the physical pluses of aqua aerobics, there are some mental benefits too. Many of us sing along as we exercise, and that makes us all feel a little happier. It is also a great place to make new friends and people often meet up outside the pool.

People come in all shapes and sizes, with different ailments or disabilities. You might imagine that exposing yourself in your bathing costume over 60 might make you feel a little vulnerable but, in my experience, the opposite happens and it is like, “We are all in this together.”

I now do aqua aerobics 3 times a week and aqua dance once. I look forward to them all and notice how flexible I am on the days I go. If you have any medical conditions have a chat with your doctor before you start, but if they say, Go ahead, I think you will be very glad you did! I certainly am :).

Please Join the Conversation:

Have you tried aqua aerobics or any other exercise class in a water environment? Do you think you could benefit?