Aqua Fitness Class with Loops

Thursday, March 23 2023

If you have access to rubberized exercise loops and are looking for more exercise ideas for your aquatic fitness classes, join Katy Coffey for 20-minutes of loop action that targets upper body, lower body and core muscles.

 

 

Do Your Job is a 20-minute express video that includes a short warm-up and cooldown and three working segments for major muscle groups in 1) upper body 2) lower body 3) core.  Consider incorporating this 20-minutes of muscle toning as an optional activity at the end of one of your cardio or high intensity classes. 

Understanding Rubberized Resistance & Loops
Most instructors and class members think of foam dumbbells and noodles when it comes to aquatic fitness equipment. However, in addition to drag equipment, rubberized bands and loops can also be used in water fitness classes for strength training. The caveat is that most rubberized equipment is not designed for the aquatic environment and they experience wear and tear more quickly. Resistance bands used for land fitness can be used in the pool with extra precautions.  First and foremost, class members should always be instructed to check bands and loops for tears before use. Additionally, the loops should be rinsed with water after use and hung up to dry in an area where they are not in direct sunlight. In the Do Your Job video, Katy is switching back and forth between loops of various resistance, from light to heavy.  Therefore, having a variety of loops with varying resistance is best. Exercise loops that are not specifically designed for use in water are very affordable. For example, the TechStone Set of 5 Resistance Bands with varying resistance is available on Amazon for $9.98.  Watch the video below for more information on the loops and then read all about Katy’s inspiration for creating this workout.

 

 

Do Your Job – The Back Story
By Katy Coffey
I travel a ton training around the country for aquatic fitness. Though I am active on my feet, I find it's really important to still find time for quick work out for me. Strength training is my personal preference. There are four types of equipment to train muscles in the water, buoyant, weighted, drag and rubberized. Traveling with most aquatic fitness equipment is out of the question, but rubberized resistance loops fit nice and snug into my bag.
Benefits of training with loops vs standard aquatic fitness equipment.

  • Increases strength:  Resistance loop training provides resistance throughout the entire movement, helping to build strength in the targeted muscles. This type of training can help increase muscle endurance and promote muscle growth.
  • Improves flexibility: Resistance loop training can also help improve flexibility and mobility by providing resistance during stretches and increasing the range of motion.
  • Low-impact: Resistance loop training can be a low-impact form of exercise, making it suitable for people who may have joint issues or other conditions that make high-impact exercises difficult.
  • Convenient: Resistance loop training can be done anywhere, making it a convenient option for those who may not have access to a gym or prefer to workout at home.
  • Versatile: Resistance loops come in a variety of resistance levels, making it easy to adjust the intensity of your workout. They can also be used for a wide range of exercises, from upper body to lower body and core exercises.

Overall, resistance loop training can be an effective way to build strength, improve flexibility, and provide a convenient and versatile workout option

Fitmotivation extends gratitude to Katy Coffey for sharing content with exercise loops, along with one of her personal favorite water workouts.   

Author: Mark Grevelding is the founder of Fitmotivation. He is also a training specialist and consultant with the Aquatic Exercise Association’s (AEA). Mark has been active in the fitness industry for 22 years as a group fitness instructor, personal trainer, international presenter and a continuing education provider for AEA, AFAA & ACE.