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Water exercise at the YMCA is done in a temperature controlled, warm water pool. 

• Warm water helps reduce pain and stiffness.  It is soothing and relaxing. 

  • Working out in a warm water pool in the morning can help loosen and relax muscles getting you ready for an active day.  

  • Done in late afternoon helps relax muscles and joints.  

  • Exercising in the evening before bedtime brings on restful sleep as it has a massaging effect on your muscles.

  • Our indoor pool makes it possible to water exercise during winter.

  • Even though it is warm water you experience a cooling effect and do not perceive "working up a sweat" while strengthening and increasing muscle flexibility. 

  • Though you might not think of it: always drink water after water exercise as you will need to replace the fluids depleted during exercise.

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• Buoyancy supports all your body and lessens the strain on your joints.

  • Exercising in water  allows you to exercise without the jarring and jolting you experience when exercising on land.

    • It is estimated that the body weight is compounded up to five times when the heel strikes during jogging and running on dry land.

  • For injured athletes who do not want to compound injuries, but want to stay in shape, deep water exercise puts the body in a near zero gravity environment,  thus eliminating the jarring and impact to the injury. 

  • Early astronauts trained in deep water to experience and train for the weightless effects of space.

  • Because your body is supported by the water your heart rate is slightly lower, meaning it is relatively safe for obese individuals, pregnant ladies, and those suffering from hypertension and heart disease.

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• Water Resistance  enables you to gradually build up flexibility, strength, and stamina, no matter what your current level of fitness.

  • The great thing about water resistance is that it is variable.  The harder you work against the water the greater the resistance.  If you are injured, have arthritis, or are just wanting an easy workout, you can take it easy and move your body gently against the water.  The water will always return equal resistance.

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• Aquatic Activities  can be enjoyed by people of all ages and degrees of fitness and are an ideal form of recreation for the entire family.  

  • Physiological Benefits

    • improved muscular strength and endurance

    • increased flexibility

    • expanded cardiovascular fitness

  • Social / Psychological Benefits

    • improved self-confidence and self-esteem

    • less pain and expanded movements

    • increased social interaction and new friends.

    • release of endorphins thus easing symptoms in depressed individuals.

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The right question is not:  " Is water exercise good for me?"

The right question is:  "How do I join the YMCA?"

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