Dive into 2025 with water classes at Orrville YMCA

Heading into a new year, resolutions come with it, maybe one to exercise more. The Orrville branch of the Wayne County YMCA, located at 1901 Smucker Road in Orrville, offers many adult group exercise classes including water aerobics classes that are suitable for all ages and abilities.

On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, there is an Aquacise class offered from 9-9:45 a.m. This class is taught in the shallow end of the pool and involves movement and lots of music.

From 10-10:45 a.m. there is an Aquafit class that also is a low-impact water class taught in the shallow end of the pool. On Wednesdays from 9-9:45 a.m., there is a Aquazumba class that combines zumba music and dance moves with a water class.

“Our instructor frequently adds fresh and challenging exercises that make exercising fun and enjoyable,” said Linda Combs of Orrville, who participates in water classes at the Y. “And the people in the class are a great group of participants who always bring laughter and camaraderie to the mix.”

“I absolutely love my water class,” said Angela Smith of Orrville, another class participant. “It is such a great workout, and the instructor is very good at keeping us moving. I have had issues with my ankle and a knee replacement, and this class has helped with my rehabilitation and recovery. My doctors have told me that swimming is one of the best ways to exercise, especially after age 50.”

On Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8-8:45 a.m., an Aquajog class taught in the deep end of the pool utilizes flotation belts, weights and noodles for a high-intensity workout that is easy on the joints.

“Aquajog is a great way to exercise when you are dealing with joint pain,” class member Annette Kelby of Marshallville said. “It’s low impact but still able to work in cardio, strength and mobility, and it’s kept me moving for many years.”

Deb Bishop of Orrville came into the class with back and hip pain and said she knew swimming would be low impact for her joints.

“I was surprised to find that this particular class is conducted in the deep end of the pool,” Bishop said. “We are supported with a swim belt and use weights and noodles for various movements. The instructor comes up with many different options to keep the class interesting and entertaining.”

Water creates natural resistance that supports the weight of the body and reduces the impact on joints and muscles. Water exercise also can help relieve stress. In addition, instructors at the Y try to work within each participant’s abilities and needs.

“The water fitness instructors and really all the staff at the Y are very supportive,” Pam Dalessandro of Orrville said. “Due to having three joints replaced and being 77 years old, I have to modify my workouts, and they all understand that.”

The Orrville Y has a locker room with private showers and lockers that can be rented for member convenience.

In addition to group water exercise classes, the Y also has a full complement of group exercise classes outside the water and a 24/7 fitness center. For more information about either water or land classes or about the fitness center, visit the Orrville YMCA website at www.ymca.org/locations/orrville-branch-ymca or call 330-683-2153.