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Water aerobics grows in popularity
By Stephanie Flemmons, Staff Writer
It was a typical morning for these motivated, happy and willing participants.
Floating in 12-foot deep water with nothing but a neon “noodle” to support them, these women followed instructor Alison Gibbs’ lead in the Deep Water Aquatics class at the Tom Muehlenbeck Center.
Water aerobics has grown in popularity as people of all ages are beginning to realize the health benefits from the low-impact exercises.
Marry Ann Guinn, who suffers from Plantar Fasciitis, which causes heel pain, arch pain and heel spurs, has participated in water aerobic classes for less than one year.
“I can tell the biggest difference in my joints,” Guinn said. “I take the deep water classes because there is no impact on my foot. I feel more toned and more developed.”
Instructor Mollie Catron said the classes target any individuals, but are great for those who have any kind of injury even as serious as a hip or knee replacement.
“There was one gentleman who was going to have to have shoulder surgery,” Catron said. “After attending classes for two sessions, he no longer has to have the surgery. When I hear things like that, golly, I can’t wait to get back here again. Seeing another human being function better is well worth it.”
The Muehlenbeck Indoor Leisure Pool is also equipped with a 3.5 foot shallow end, where the higher impact water aerobics classes take place. Class participants will use a variety of exercise methods including bar bells, jumping jacks and running.
“It’s a really good workout,” said Ashley McKay recreation coordinator. “You get into the class and work like crazy, but never know it. It’s a lot of fun.”
Catron said the social aspect of group togetherness also makes the classes successful.
“A lot of people love the benefit of a group atmosphere,” Catron said. “I find great satisfaction helping out with their physical and social well-being.”
The Tom Muehlenbeck Recreation Center is Plano’s newest state-ofnthe-art facility equipped with an indoor eight-lane 25-yard salt-water pool.
“The salt water is new to the metroplex because of the complex filtering system,” Catron said. “It’s much better for you. You don’t ingest chemicals and your skin doesn’t absorb them.”
Classes are also conducted in the Leisure Pool’s PAR-D flow channel, which creates a current.
Catron said people walk with and against the current for cardiovascular purposes.
“This is another water aerobics method that is easier on your joints and a lot cooler because you are in the water,” Catron said. “This is a very social atmosphere. A lot of people prefer this exercise because they get the group atmosphere as opposed to working on a machine upstairs by their selves.”
A membership to the recreation center is not necessary to attend the classes. McKay said those interested can either pay a one time drop-in fee or register for the class by visiting www.planoparks.org.
M/W/F 8 a.m. PAR-D River Aerobic
9 a.m. Deep and Shallow
10 a.m. Deep and Shallow
M/W 7:30 p.m. Deep
T/R 6:15 a.m. deep
9 a.m. Deep and Shallow
7:30 p.m. Shallow
Sat. 8:30 a.m. Deep
9:30 a.m. Shallow
Sessions are four weeks long.
Contact Stephanie Flemmons at sflemmons@acnpapers.com
