During the Winter season, it can be hard to maintain fitness and achieve exercise goals being limited to indoor activities. Our Fitness Specialist at Wesley Enhanced Living Main Line, JoEllen Marks, who has worked in Senior Living for over 10 years now, shares some ways you can stay active through aquatic exercises for those with access to an indoor pool. 

“Water based exercise programming is a fantastic way for seniors to stay active, healthy, and happy—without feeling like their workout is all work. There is no pounding the pavement or braving a gym’s weight room—fitness for seniors can be as refreshing as a dip in the pool! Aquatic exercise is not just for the young or the Michael Phelps wanna-bes, but if you are not yet convinced, here are five reasons why making a splash is a win for health and fitness, no matter your age.”

  1. Low-Impact, High-Benefit

    Ever heard of “kind to the joints”? Water’s buoyancy means your body weight feels up to 90% lighter, taking the strain off knees, hips, and back. For seniors with arthritis or joint pain, this low-impact environment is a game-changer. You’ll feel like you’re floating through life—even if it’s just during your workout.
  2. Strength in Every Stroke

    You don’t need dumbbells when the pool itself provides resistance. Every movement in the water works against natural resistance, helping to build and strengthen muscles. The best part? There’s zero risk of dropping a 15-pound barbell on your toes—because water has your back (and your front, sides, and everywhere else).
  3. Better Balance with No Balancing Act

    Falls are an all-too-common concern for seniors, but water exercise helps improve coordination and stability. Even better, if you lose your footing in the pool, the worst that happens is a little splash—not a trip to the ER. Water-based balance training helps build confidence on land, too.
  4. Cardio That Doesn’t Feel Like Cardio

    Think aquatic exercise is all floating around? Think again! Water aerobics, swimming laps, or even walking in the pool can get your heart pumping in a fun and sustainable way. Plus, water cools you off as you move, so no dripping sweat—just dripping water, which is way more glamorous…think Esther Williams.
  5. Boosts Mood, Drowns Stress

    There’s something about being in the water that feels… zen. Science agrees—exercise, especially in water, can release endorphins, reduce stress, and lift your spirits. Whether it’s the rhythm of swimming or the laughter in a water aerobics class, aquatic exercise is as good for your mind as it is for your muscles.
Take the Plunge!

From improving strength and balance to protecting your joints and lifting your mood, aquatic exercise offers you a fitness fountain of youth. So, grab your swimsuit, your noodles, and your sense of adventure, and take the plunge into better health. It’s never too late to make a splash! 

Aquatic Exercises at Wesley Enhanced Living

At Wesley Enhanced Living Main Line and Doylestown, our indoor heated pools provide a wonderful space for our Aquatics Programs! The warm water is especially beneficial for residents with arthritis, and the exercise classes consist of lower tempo full body range of motion and strength, using water weights and pool noodles for the resistance training. Check out some of our other locations and their amenities and activities as well! Each of our communities have in-depth fitness and activities programs for our residents to stay active, healthy, and happy! Contact us today to learn more about Wesley Enhanced Living and find out why our seniors love where they live!