Aqua aerobics at Gloucester pool still bobbing along after 40 years

AQUA aerobics classes have recommenced at Gloucester Olympic Pool, much to the delight of those who enjoy their exercise buoyant.

Health researchers explain that exercising in water comes with several benefits.

Standing in waist-deep water reduces body weight by up to 50 per cent, resulting in less strain on joints.

Water provides more resistance, improving cardiovascular fitness in an environment where balance is exercised without fear of falling.

Aqua classes are also social events, helping to enhance the sense of wellbeing.

Like all exercise, aquatic exercise produces endorphins, which improve mood. It also increases blood flow to the brain, which benefits cognition and memory.

Aqua aerobics was an initiative of Maureen and Aldo Tiogas, who managed the Gloucester Olympic Pool from the 1980/1981 season until 1989 after applying for the position while living in Broken Hill.

Their experience operating Broken Hill’s pool and Aldo’s extensive experience as a swimming instructor got them the job.

“Introducing aqua aerobics was a way of getting pool patrons through the door – and it worked,” Maureen told NOTA.

An experienced dancer, she trained to be an aqua aerobics instructor, incorporating music and dance moves into her twice-weekly classes.

Patrons with mobility issues and pain who struggled with land-based exercise embraced water-based exercise.

“At times I had around 40 people in the class,” Maureen recalled.

“Classes were free, but people put 20 cents into a kitty for our Christmas party.”

While Maureen and Aldo moved on, local pool patrons have continued their legacy for some 40 years.

Julie Reay, who facilitates the aqua classes, told NOTA the classes are still free for those who pay pool admission or who purchase a season ticket.

“Once a month we get together for lunch,” she said.

“We still put money into a kitty to pay for our Christmas Party.

“We even had enough to purchase equipment for the pool, such as noodles and aqua barbells.

The classes run from 9.30 am to 10.30 am, Monday to Thursday, and new members are most welcome.

By Marilyn SANDERSON