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JBSA News
NEWS | June 9, 2008

Easing into exercise: Water aerobics program for all fitness levels cranks up on base

By Thomas Warner Staff writer

People who choose not to exercise regularly might find a desired alternative in the form of water aerobics. 

Now offered again by Rambler Fitness Center at the center pool, water aerobics is easy on the body and employs a variety of methods and equipment to provide a means of staying in shape. 

"The program is open to both women and men and we're hoping to draw a good mix of people," fitness center sports director Marlin Richardson said. "This is a program where you will burn a lot of calories. It combines strength training with cardio." 

The class meets at the center pool two times a week, for an hour per session. Styrofoam noodles and kickboards, plus webbed hand fins, are all employed in the program to create resistance. A primary goal is to reduce stress and impact on joints while strengthening the body. 

Regina Barak has been teaching water aerobics and a handful of other classes on Randolph for four years. She said different participants will have different goals, but all will benefit from an hour in the water. 

"Most people can work harder in water than on land," Ms. Barak said. "You don't feel the exertion as much as you might on a treadmill or doing other workouts in the gym. The water is refreshing and you aren't fighting through the routine as much as you would elsewhere. We always have a good time in this class." 

Water aerobics strengthens participants' stabilizing muscles, including abdominal muscles, while utilizing just 10 percent of the body's weight. Resistance-training tactics are employed, with the water acting as an agent to stretch and pull, but not injure. 

Toning of muscles takes place during the course of the workout and water aerobics can improve both balance and posture. 

"You will do jumping jacks in the water, strides, knee lifts and other exercises," Mr. Richardson said. "It's something that's good for people who maybe don't work out as much or don't want the same type of exertion you'd do with weightlifting." 

People with chronic back problems or knee pain will most probably benefit from the program, which takes place from 10-11 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. 

"You have to push yourself a little harder for any real benefit but it's totally up to the individual as to what they hope to gain from the course," Ms. Barak said. "You could do the minimum and still benefit. Any time an individual is moving, that's a positive thing. 

"This is a medium in which everybody can exercise, from least fit to most fit. For people recuperating from injuries, too, this is very therapeutic." 

Rambler Fitness Center also offers weekly group class sessions in kickboxing, yoga, cardiofusion, cycling and a variety of other exercise techniques. 

"We have around 2,000 people that use our facility every week," Mr. Richardson said. "Active-duty people, dependents, reservists, DoD civilians, contractors and retirees make up our clientele. 

"We offer a variety of workout programs because different people enjoy or are able to do different things." 

For more infomation, call the Rambler Fitness Center at 652-2955.