Water fitness classes are back at the Signal Mountain Town Pool, giving the community a way to beat the heat while getting a full-body workout. The class is appropriate for most fitness levels, and is held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10-11 a.m. It will run throughout the summer until the pool closes on Labor Day.
This is the third summer for the class, which was started at the request of several swim team moms who wanted something to do while waiting for their kids to finish practice. The moms recommended instructors Edie Clingan and Kay Turner to lead each hour-long session. Clingan teaches the Tuesday class and Turner teaches the Thursday class.
A typical class includes a warm-up, weights and cardio, along with work in the deep end, such as treading water, and core work using water noodles, Turner said.
Water fitness class participants at the Signal Mountain Town Pool take advantage of the water's resistance with strength training exercises. (Contributed photo)"We work all the same muscle groups you would in a traditional land class, but it's easier on the joints and there's less risk of injury," she said of the benefits of working out in the water. "It's a do-at-your-own-pace workout, and you have the resistance of the water to help with strength-building."
The class has a core group of women who typically attend, said Turner, and the highest attendance is usually in July.
"We'd love to see the program grow," she added.
Turner said town of Signal Mountain Recreation Director Jarred Thompson has been very supportive and purchased water weights for the class earlier this summer.
The cost of the class is $5, and while it's not necessary to reserve a spot, new participants will need to fill out a waiver before their first class.
"It's one of the best deals on the mountain," Turner said.
Those who are wary of the water can always stay where their feet can touch, she noted. Or, they can check out Total Body Strong, a boot camp-style fitness class she teaches at the MACC Mondays and Wednesdays at 9:15 a.m. and Fridays at 8:30 a.m.
The Signal Mountain Town Pool is at 1111 Ridgeway Ave. For more information about the fitness classes, call Turner at 316-6742 or visit facebook.com/signalmountainwateraerobics.
Water fitness class participants at the Signal Mountain Town Pool take advantage of the water's resistance with strength training exercises. (Contributed photo)