Water aerobics classes now available at aquatic center

by Airman 1st Class Hailey Haux
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

The Ramstein Aquatic Center re-opened its water aerobics class Aug. 14.

“This class is great for people of all ages and fitness abilities,” said Megan Spence, aquatic center water aerobics instructor and lifeguard.

The aquatic center stopped giving the water aerobics class due to the lack of instructors and now have more instructors available to teach the class.

The class is offered from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

“Tuesday is our shallow water day, while Thursday we do everything in the deep end,” Spence said.

Though Thursday sessions are held in the deep end, a jogger belt is used to help people stay afloat during the deep end portions. Swimmers and non-swimmers use the belts during the exercises, and life jackets are also available.

During the class there is an assortment of things that participants work on.

“We do abs, arms, legs and much more,” Spence said. “We do a mixture of cardio and strength training throughout the class.”

There are many benefits to this water aerobics class, she said. Exercising in the water burns more calories than a general workout. The body focuses on the movements while trying to keep itself warm at the same time, essentially doing double the work.

“It’s a great class for anyone,” said participant Georjeana Halstead. “I enjoyed the class.”

Volunteering to be an instructor interested Spence since she began working at the aquatic center.

“I have been a certified women’s weight trainer and nutrition adviser for about two years and was trying to decide what to do next,” she said. “When I started working at the pool, I saw the need for an instructor, so I got certified.”

With more than 15 people in attendance on opening day, Spence is hoping to keep the class growing.

“My favorite part about teaching the class is seeing and hearing how it benefits different people,” she said. “When people come up to me and tell me that they feel exercised and relaxed or that they see progress and results, it makes me feel good.”

Since the aquatic center opened in 2008, there have been a variety of classes offered to people of all ages.

Along with water aerobics, swim lessons are offered to people anywhere from 6 months old up to adults. A fit lunch class is held from noon to 1 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

For more information about the aquatic center and classes offered, call 478-7765 or 06371-405-7765.