It’s been a year of growth and expansion for Aquilla water aerobics in the Helderberg as they broaden their offerings to suit various needs.
Offered since 2000 by Janet Bennell, the classes presented consist of water movements that holistically benefit especially the elderly and those on the road to recovery.
“The individuals have grown considerably, many have had surgery and recovered quicker and kept their agility despite increasing in age. Due to a lot of stress-related illness from life changing during Covid and world affairs, clients have been fortunate to be able to exercise in warm water which helps calm nerves and assist in reducing some autoimmune stress and symptoms,” said Benell as she reflected on the year that was.
“One client who joined us had a large bale of industrial paper fall on him and crush a few bones and body parts. He arrived in a wheelchair with a not-too-good prognosis. His wife came to help and in the six months he was back walking on crutches and no wheelchair. Soon enough he went back to driving and to work as well. I have a lady who turned 91 in January and has been in my classes for more than 10 years and, despite having a fall, still comes to swim when she can. I have clients who have had huge battles over the years, some with cancer and others dealing with loss, yet they show up with their personality and make the most of each moment. They are a blessing to me and a life lesson. It’s attitude that determines altitude.”
She elaborated that the biggest changes in the last year has been in terms of fitness and happiness, and said that when people came back from lockdown some were teary, fearful and nervous. (Steady, safe exercise in the pool, Helderberg Gazette, 11 January2022).
By exercising regularly and persevering it has evolved into just having fun and feeling fit.
“The benefits over a course of classes is that all muscle groups get exercised and stretched,” she said. “These routines improve strength, stamina, balance, fitness and maintain muscle strength and mass as much as possible. Benefits are numerous as people recovering from operations like knee replacements are weightless in water so the weak area is protected and the supporting muscle is strengthened. The risk of injury is low.”
Bennell described how one often notices a huge difference in those who have been exercising regularly and those who don’t.
“One advantage in the water is a fit advanced client may have an op or say an autoimmune relapse but they can still exercise tailored to their condition. So each person works to according to where they are on that day.”
Touching a bit on the growth of these classes, Bennell said the hosts have classes at venues that serve Gordon’s Bay, Strand, Somerset West and right up to Stellenbosch and Faure, some clients even from Pringle Bay.
“It came about as I had to evolve the business due to the energy crisis and to meet my clients needs to make it easy and convenient to attend,” she said. “I offer classes on private properties, seasonal venues such as Krystal Beach Hotel, and the centre at Bridgewater Manor. Others are chosen to serve specific geographic areas and others are venues that approached me because of my history and experience.” She added there was still place available for new members.
Bennell said some highlights to look forward to is the monthly meal, which is usually themed, such as the recent Valentine’s lunch and winter classes at a local spa, a newly launched men’s class and pregnant ladies’ class.
“The classes are open to anyone, and they have to be able to get in and out themselves and dress themselves,” concluded Bennell.
V To find out more call 074 194 4160.
